baskmetallen

Base metals are a class of metals that are not considered noble or precious and are generally more reactive and less resistant to corrosion than their noble counterparts. They are typically abundant and inexpensive, which makes them widely used across industries. Common examples include copper, zinc, lead, tin, nickel, aluminium and iron, as well as alloys such as steel, brass and bronze.

Base metals exhibit a range of useful properties that support diverse applications. Copper and aluminium are known for their high electrical and thermal conductivity, while iron and its alloys provide strength and durability. Many base metals oxidize or corrode when exposed to air or moisture, as seen with iron rusting or copper developing a patina. They are often alloyed to enhance characteristics such as hardness, ductility, or corrosion resistance. They are also frequently processed from ore through smelting and refining, with aluminium requiring energy-intensive extraction from bauxite via the Hall–Héroult process.

In industry, base metals underpin construction, infrastructure, electronics, packaging and transportation. Steel and iron form structural materials; copper wires carry electricity; tinplate coats steel for cans; brass and bronze find use in fittings and decorative items. The economics of base metals are closely tied to supply and demand dynamics, mining output, and global trade, making their prices more volatile than those of precious metals. Recycling plays a major role, with copper and aluminium in particular being highly recyclable, offering energy savings and reduced environmental impact. Some base metals pose health or environmental risks in certain forms (for example, lead or cadmium), necessitating proper handling and regulation.