Aluminium is the thirteenth element in the periodic table and is also a transition metal. It is the most abundant donor on Earth after oxygen and silicon, the most abundant metal naturally found on Earth, and the second most widely used metal in the world after iron. It is widely used as an alloy, even if the content of aluminium is as high as 99%. Aluminium is shiny metal and does not rust like steel. Its features include low density, high thermal conductivity, extremely ductile metal, non-toxic, and high corrosion resistance. No other metal can compare to aluminium in terms of its diverse uses. It is incredibly popular because it is lightweight, strong, resistant to corrosion, and durable. Aluminium is theoretically 100% reusable and its natural properties are not lost.
The most common uses of aluminium
Aluminium is used in transportation and this is due to its irrepressible power between its weight and proportion. Although it is not the strongest metal, alloying with other metals helps to increase its strength. Since its corrosion resistance is an additional bonus, the need for heavier and more costly anti-corrosion coatings is eliminated. Although the auto industry is still heavily dependent on steel, driving aluminium to increase fuel efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions leads to more widespread use of aluminium. It is known as the ‘winged metal’ because it is suitable for aeroplanes. Similarly, aluminium is thermally efficient, which keeps homes warm in winter and cool in summer. It has a good finish and can be bent and welded in any shape. Although it has only 63% of the heterogeneity conductivity of copper, the low concentration of aluminium has become the best option for long-distance visibility lines.
Since aluminium is more in ducts than copper, it helps to form wires very easily. In addition to power lines and cables, aluminium is also used in motors, devices, and power systems. The satellite dishes of television antennas and even some LED bulbs are made of aluminium. It is very lightweight and can reduce impact resistance. So, it is useful in places where there are strong winds. Aluminium frames are generally reasonably durable and inexpensive and are also more resistant to scratches, cracks, and friction.
Characteristics of aluminium
Being the most abundant metal on earth, aluminium has so many characteristics that some of its uses may seem familiar to you because it is so commonly used in our lives. Aluminium is lightweight and relatively durable when corrosion, and this substance is often used as cooking utensils, as well as if you melt it with other metals, you will get another metal that is stronger and better. Aluminium is very easy to recycle, which is why it becomes the most abundant metal in the world. The surface of these metals is usually covered with a thin layer of oxide, so aluminium helps protect their surface from the air and eventually leads to resistance to corrosion.