← all shorts

Concept

Platinum-group metals

A metallic sphere with six protruding elements resembling platinum-group metals, symbolizing their unique molecular binding capabilities.

Six elements clustered together in the middle of the periodic table: ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, and platinum. They share an unusual ability to bind small molecules just tightly enough to hold them in place without trapping them, which is the defining trait of a useful heterogeneous catalyst. Roughly 80% of world supply comes from two countries, South Africa and Russia, which makes their prices volatile and their geopolitics fraught.

Mentioned in 1 article