Introduction
Cadmium (Cd) is a soft, bluish-white metal known for its use in batteries, coatings, pigments, and electronics. It is also a toxic heavy metal, requiring careful handling due to its environmental and health risks. Read more about Discover cadmium properties, industrial applications, and market trends. Learn about its uses in batteries, coatings
Current Price of Cadmium
Cadmium prices vary based on industrial demand, mining output, and regulatory factors. As of March 2025, the approximate cadmium prices are:
- $2.50 per pound (global market)
- ₹4,500 per kg (Indian market)
📌 Check Live Prices: Cadmium Market Price
What is Cadmium?
Cadmium is a transition metal primarily obtained as a byproduct of zinc mining. It is corrosion-resistant and widely used in rechargeable batteries, coatings, and plastics.
Chemical Properties:
- Symbol: Cd
- Atomic Number: 48
- Atomic Mass: 112.41 u
- Melting Point: 321°C
- Boiling Point: 765°C
- Density: 8.65 g/cm³
- Toxicity: Highly toxic to humans and the environment
Uses & Applications of Cadmium
1. Rechargeable Batteries (Nickel-Cadmium Batteries – NiCd)
Cadmium is a key component in NiCd batteries, used in:
- Emergency backup power supplies
- Cordless power tools
- Medical devices
📌 Image: NiCd Battery
🔗 Related Article: How NiCd Batteries Work
2. Cadmium in Coatings & Electroplating
Cadmium coatings provide corrosion resistance, especially in:
- Aircraft & aerospace components
- Marine equipment
- Fasteners & electrical connectors
📌 Image: Cadmium Plating on Metal
🔗 Related Article: Cadmium Plating: Benefits & Risks
3. Pigments in Paints & Plastics
- High-quality paints & coatings
- Plastic products (toys, packaging)
- Ceramics & glass coloring
📌 Image: Cadmium Pigments
🔗 Learn More: Why Cadmium Pigments Are Popular
4. Cadmium in Electronics & Solar Cells
Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) is used in solar panels & semiconductor devices.
- Improves energy efficiency and is widely used in thin-film solar cells.
📌 Image: Cadmium-Based Solar Panels
🔗 Related Article: Cadmium in Renewable Energy
5. Nuclear & Industrial Applications
Cadmium absorbs neutrons, making it useful in:
- Nuclear reactors (as control rods)
- Radiation shielding in medical and industrial settings
📌 Image: Cadmium Control Rods
🔗 Learn More: Cadmium in Nuclear Science
Benefits of Cadmium
- ✔ Corrosion-resistant & durable (used in coatings)
- ✔ High energy density in NiCd batteries
- ✔ Efficient in solar cells & electronics
- ✔ Vibrant, long-lasting pigments
Side Effects & Risks of Cadmium
- ❌ Highly Toxic: Exposure can cause lung & kidney damage.
- ❌ Environmental Hazard: Cadmium pollution harms soil & water.
- ❌ Regulatory Restrictions: Many countries are phasing out cadmium-based products due to toxicity.
Future of Cadmium
- 🔹 Declining use in batteries (being replaced by Li-ion batteries)
- 🔹 Growing role in solar technology (CdTe solar cells)
- 🔹 Stronger environmental regulations limiting cadmium emissions
📌 Related Report: Cadmium Regulations & Future Trends
Conclusion
Cadmium is a valuable industrial metal with applications in batteries, coatings, pigments, and solar technology. However, its toxicity and environmental impact are leading to alternative materials in many industries.
FAQs
Q1: Why is cadmium banned in some countries?
✔ Due to its toxicity & environmental hazards, many countries restrict its use in consumer products.
Q2: What are cadmium-free alternatives in batteries?
✔ Lithium-ion and Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are replacing cadmium-based batteries.
Q3: How is cadmium used in solar panels?
✔ Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) improves energy efficiency in thin-film solar cells.
Q4: Can cadmium be recycled?
✔ Yes, cadmium from batteries & industrial waste is recycled under strict regulations.
Q5: Is cadmium safe to use in paints?
✔ Only in industrial settings. Consumer products are shifting to cadmium-free alternatives.
📌 Check Cadmium Prices & Trends: Live Cadmium Market Updates
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