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Platinumgroup

Platinum group metals (PGMs) are six metallic elements: ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, and platinum. They share several physical and chemical properties, including high melting points, high densities, hardness and wear resistance, and strong resistance to corrosion. They are prized for their catalytic activity and are often found together in mineral deposits, typically in sulfide ores associated with nickel and copper mining or in layered mafic intrusions such as the Bushveld Complex in South Africa and Norilsk in Russia.

Most PGMs are produced as byproducts of nickel and copper mining, reflecting the geologic association with

Applications of PGMs are diverse. They are essential catalysts in automotive catalytic converters, petroleum refining, and

base
metals
rather
than
a
primary
ore
of
PGMs.
As
a
result,
their
supply
is
closely
linked
to
the
fortunes
of
nickel
and
copper
markets
and
to
mining
activity
in
a
few
countries.
The
major
refining
and
production
centers
are
concentrated
in
South
Africa,
Russia,
Canada,
and
other
parts
of
the
world,
with
recycling
of
spent
catalysts
contributing
a
significant
portion
of
supply.
many
chemical
processes.
They
also
find
use
in
electronics,
glassmaking,
jewelry,
and
specialized
industrial
components.
The
combination
of
scarcity,
high
demand,
and
byproduct
production
means
PGMs
are
subject
to
price
volatility
and
supply
risk,
prompting
ongoing
emphasis
on
recycling,
substitute
development,
and
exploration
of
new
resources.