stibium

Stibium is the Latin name for the chemical element antimony, with the symbol Sb and atomic number 51. It belongs to the post‑transition metals group, sharing structural characteristics with elements such as tin and bismuth. Antimony typically appears as a gray, metallic solid, but it can exist in several allotropes, the most common being the trigonal α‑Sb, which crystallizes in a rhombohedral lattice. The element is moderately reactive; it forms a stable passive oxide film that protects it from further oxidation under normal conditions.

Historically, stibium was first isolated by ancient alchemists, who observed its distinctive flame‑blue fire in heated mixtures. In the Middle Ages, it was used to purple glass, to pigment glassware, and as a component in antimony sulfide used to make black lead pencils and in some early preparations for glass enamels. Its toxicity and ability to form brittle alloys with tin sparked early interest in metallurgy and pyrotechnics.

In modern applications, antimony is primarily used as an alloying element in lead‑acid batteries to improve mechanical strength and to reduce self‑discharge. It also functions as an additive in flame‑retardant formulations for textiles, plastics, and rubber, owing to its ability to form protective char layers that inhibit combustion. In electronics, small amounts of Sb are used in semi‑conducting alloys such as antimony telluride for thermoelectric materials. Despite its usefulness, antimony compounds are regulated due to potential nephrotoxic and genotoxic effects, and appropriate safety measures are required in industrial settings.