telúrio

Telúrio is a chemical element with the symbol Te and atomic number 52. It is a rare, silvery-white, lustrous metalloid. Chemically, it resembles selenium and sulfur. Telúrio is one of the least abundant elements in the Earth's crust, found in small quantities primarily as telluride ores, often associated with gold and silver.

Naturally occurring telúrio consists of eight isotopes, all of which are stable. It is found in its elemental form only rarely, most commonly in native crystalline form. It is more often found in compounds such as calaverite and sylvanite. Large-scale production of telúrio is typically a byproduct of copper refining.

The primary use of telúrio is in metallurgy, where it is added to cast iron to improve machinability and to stainless steel to enhance formability. It is also used in thermoelectric devices, solar cells, and as a semiconductor material. In recent years, research has explored its potential in various advanced technological applications, including in new types of batteries and for enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy sources.

Telúrio compounds have found applications in rubber vulcanization, as catalysts, and in the production of certain dyes. Despite its relative rarity and limited industrial applications compared to more common elements, telúrio plays a crucial role in specific technological advancements. Its unique properties continue to make it a subject of scientific interest and development.