vanadio

Vanadium is a chemical element with the symbol V and atomic number 23. It is a hard, silvery-gray transition metal that resists corrosion and forms a protective oxide layer in air. Vanadium has a high melting point (about 1910°C) and a high boiling point, and it occurs in multiple oxidation states, most commonly +2, +3, +4, and +5. In nature, vanadium is not found free but occurs in minerals such as vanadinite and in vanadium-bearing magnetite, often associated with titanomagnetite ores.

Occurrence and production: The largest sources of vanadium are titanomagnetite ores and other vanadium-bearing minerals. Global production centers include China, Russia, South Africa, and other countries. The principal industrial route yields vanadium pentoxide (V2O5), which can be refined into ferrovanadium or used directly as a catalyst. Ferrovanadium is a common alloying agent added to steel to improve strength and toughness.

Applications: The dominant use of vanadium is as an alloying element in steel and other alloys, where it enhances strength, hardness, and wear resistance. Vanadium pentoxide is a key catalyst in the production of sulfuric acid via the contact process and is used in various oxidation reactions. Vanadium compounds have applications in ceramics and pigments, and research explores vanadium-based redox flow batteries for energy storage.

Safety: Vanadium compounds can be toxic, and inhalation of dust or fumes may damage the lungs and respiratory tract. Handling requires proper ventilation and protective equipment.

History: Vanadium was identified in 1801 by Andrés Manuel del Río; it was rediscovered as a new element in 1830 by Nils Gabriel Sefström, who named it vanadium after the Norse goddess Vanadis. The name reflects its colorful chemistry and widespread oxidation states.