Kadmiumi

Kadmiumi, also known as cadmium, is a chemical element with the symbol Cd and atomic number 48. It is a soft, bluish-white metal that belongs to group 12 of the periodic table, which also includes zinc and mercury. Cadmium is chemically similar to zinc and often occurs as a minor constituent in zinc ores, as well as in lead and copper ores.

Cadmium has notable applications primarily in rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries, which were once common in portable electronics and power tools. It is also used in electroplating, pigments, coatings, and as a stabilizer in some plastics. Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity, cadmium has been useful in these industrial sectors.

However, cadmium is highly toxic and poses significant health and environmental risks. Chronic exposure can lead to serious health problems such as kidney damage, bone weakenedness, and it is classified as a human carcinogen by international health agencies. As a result, the use of cadmium has been restricted or phased out in many countries, especially in consumer products.

Cadmium is primarily obtained as a byproduct of zinc refining and is usually produced through smelting and refinery processes. Its environmental persistence and toxicity have raised concerns regarding pollution, particularly related to mining, processing, and disposal of cadmium-containing materials.

Despite restrictions on its use, cadmium remains a subject of ongoing environmental and health research. Regulatory bodies continue to monitor and control cadmium emissions to mitigate its impact on public health and ecosystems. Efforts are also underway to develop safer alternatives and recycling methods for cadmium-containing products.

---