Re: Iridium



Jim Painter wrote:
> I've read that iridium is used in the impact shielding of radioisotope
> thermoelectric generators (RTG) on spacecraft because of its hardness, high
> melting point, and extreme corrosion resistance. With stats like that, why
> isn't it being used in more applications? I know it is expensive, but so
> are many other exotic alloys and composites. It seems that it would be
> perfect for numerous aggressive environment applications but is largely
> ignored. Any thoughts on other uses/reasons for non-use?
>
> Thanks!
>
> Jim Painter
> Materials Science and Engineering
> Georgia Institue of Technology

Iridium has found a small niche in high performance spark plug
manufacture where people seem to be willing to pay for the miniscule
performance gains over platinum.
http://www.spark-plugs.co.uk/pages/technical/iridium_spark_plugs.htm

In the end the rarity of iridium is the killer.

.

Relevant Pages

  • Re: Iridium
    ... >> I've read that iridium is used in the impact shielding of radioisotope ... >> perfect for numerous aggressive environment applications but is largely ... >> Jim Painter ... > Iridium has found a small niche in high performance spark plug ...
    (sci.materials)
  • Re: Iridium
    ... > thermoelectric generators on spacecraft because of its hardness, ... > perfect for numerous aggressive environment applications but is largely ... Iridium is expensive, unworkable, and rare. ...
    (sci.materials)