tantalum (Ta)
The major use for tantalum, as tantalum metal powder, is in the production of electronic components, mainly electrolytic capacitors. Major end uses for tantalum capacitors include portable telephones, pagers, personal computers, and automotive electronics. Alloyed with other metals, tantalum is also used in making carbide tools for metalworking equipment, nuclear reactor parts, light-bulb filaments, lightning conductors, some surgical instruments, and in the production of superalloys for jet engine components. Australia, Brazil, and Canada are the major producers of tantalum mineral concentrates.
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