What is Aluminium?
Aluminium (or aluminum) is a light, silver-colored metal that is abundant in nature It is one of the most widely used metals in the world and its importance lies in its versatility, low cost, and ability to be recycled easily. Aluminium can be found in numerous products we use every day, including cars, aircraft, packaging, electronics, and construction materials.
Aluminium is naturally occurring in the environment and is the third most abundant element on Earth. It is a highly reactive metal, which is why it is rarely found in its pure form. Instead, it is found in rocks and soil as aluminium compounds like aluminosilicates and alumina. These compounds can be mined and refined to produce pure aluminium metal. To do this, alumina is heated in an electrolytic cell, where a current is applied. This process separates the aluminium, which is then melted and cast into the desired shape or form.
Aluminium is extremely light and strong, making it an ideal material for many applications. It is also resistant to corrosion and doesn’t tarnish easily. This makes it an ideal material for outdoor applications, such as window frames and gutters. Aluminium is also a great conductor of heat and electricity and is used in electronics, electrical wiring, and even high-voltage electrical transmission lines.
Five Interesting Examples of Aluminium
1. Automotive: Aluminium is a popular material in the automotive industry. It is used to make car bodies, chassis, engine blocks, and wheels. It is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for car parts.
2. Aircraft: Aluminium is used in the manufacture of aircraft, both large and small. It is used in the construction of wings, fuselage, and tail sections.
3. Cookware: Aluminium cookware is popular. It is lightweight and conducts heat evenly and quickly, making it ideal for cooking.
4. Packaging: Aluminium is commonly used for packaging food and drinks, such as soda cans, beer bottles, and food containers. It is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for packaging.
5. Computers: Aluminium is used in many computer components, such as CPU coolers and laptop chassis. It is lightweight, durable, and good at dissipating heat, making it ideal for laptops and other electronics.