BY CHISOM IBEMERE
Bismuth has been known since ancient times but was often confused with lead and tin due to its similar appearance.
The element was officially recognized as distinct in the mid-18th century, though it had been used earlier by alchemists and metallurgists. The name “Bismuth” is derived from the German word Wismut, meaning “white mass.”
Bismuth is relatively rare in the Earth’s crust but is more abundant than silver. It occurs naturally as a free metal and in ores.
It is often a by-product in the refining of lead, copper, tin, silver, and gold.
Major producers include China (largest), Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, and Canada.
Bismuth is a versatile element with applications in various industries:
Pharmaceuticals: Active ingredient in antacids and anti-diarrheal medicines (e.g., Pepto-Bismol).
Cosmetics & Pigments: Used in makeup and pearl-like paints.
Metallurgy: Low-melting bismuth alloys are used in fire detection systems and metal casting.
Electronics: Used in thermoelectric devices due to its ability to conduct electricity poorly but retain heat.
Green Technology: Bismuth is considered a non-toxic alternative to lead, especially in solders and bullets.
Bismuth has a Silvery white colour with an iridescent hue (especially when oxidized). It has a high density yet it is the most diamagnetic naturally occurring element.
It has a Rhombohedral crystal structure and can form beautiful, rainbow-colored hopper crystals when artificially grown.
Bismuth is increasingly valued as an eco-friendly alternative to lead in manufacturing and medicine. It is moderately priced, but prices can fluctuate based on supply and environmental regulations.
As industries seek safer materials, demand for bismuth is expected to grow.
Some countries consider it a critical mineral due to its use in clean tech and health products.