tincontaining

Tin-containing refers to substances that include tin (Sn) in their chemical composition. Tin is a soft, malleable post‑transition metal with two common oxidation states, +2 and +4, and is primarily obtained from the ore cassiterite (SnO2).

Substances described as tin-containing fall into several broad classes: metallic tin and tin alloys (such as bronze, which is copper with tin, and pewter); tin coatings and packaging (notably tinplate used for food and beverage cans); tin compounds including oxides (SnO2), sulfides (SnS, SnS2), halides, and various stannates; and organotin compounds in which tin is bonded to carbon, used as catalysts, stabilizers, and biocides.

Applications include bronze and pewter alloys, solder for electronics and plumbing, tinplate coatings for cans, and tin oxide pigments and coatings. Tin compounds are also used in ceramics and glass and in certain electronic materials; organotin compounds have specialized roles but are subject to environmental restrictions due to toxicity concerns. Tributyltin, once common in antifouling paints, has been restricted or banned in many jurisdictions due to marine toxicity.

Health and environmental considerations: Many tin compounds are of low acute toxicity, but organotin compounds can be highly toxic to aquatic life and persist in the environment. Regulatory controls exist, including restrictions on organotin use and broader environmental frameworks such as REACH and RoHS in different regions. Tin recycling is an important part of resource management and contributes to supply.

Occurrence and production: Tin is mined from cassiterite; smelting yields metallic tin used in many alloys, with recycling of tin from scrap and can materials contributing to supply.