Nickelinnhold

Nickelinnhold, or nickel content, is the proportion of nickel in a material expressed by mass, typically as a percentage of the total mass (wt% Ni). It is used to describe the composition of ores, concentrates, alloys, coatings, and finished products, and it helps assess value, quality, and performance.

Measurement of nickelinnhold is performed through chemical analysis and instrumental methods. Common techniques include X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Gravimetric methods may be used for pure nickel or specific samples.

In geology and mining, nickelinnhold indicates ore grade and economic viability. Nickel content in ores can vary from fractions of a percent to several percent, depending on deposit type, with sulfide and laterite deposits representing different typical ranges. After beneficiation, concentrates are produced with higher nickel content for smelting or hydrometallurgical processing.

In metallurgy, nickel content strongly influences material properties. In stainless steels, nickel enhances corrosion resistance and toughness and helps stabilize the austenitic phase. Nickel-based superalloys rely on high nickel content to achieve strength at elevated temperatures. Nickel coatings and plating rely on controlled nickel content to provide hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion protection.

Quality control relies on standardized testing to verify nickel content according to applicable industry methods. Nickel content also relates to health and environmental considerations, as exposure limits and regulatory requirements may apply, particularly for coatings, alloys, and mining operations.