 Antimony (pronounced /ænˈtɪməniː/ (UK) or /ˈæntɨmoʊni/ (US)) is a chemical element with the symbol Sb (Latin: stibium, meaning "mark") and atomic number 51. A metalloid, antimony has four allotropic forms. The stable form of antimony is a blue-white metalloid. Yellow and black antimony are unstable non-metals. Antimony is used in flame-proofing, paints, ceramics, enamels, a wide variety of alloys, electronics, and rubber.
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Antimony output in 2005 |
World production trend of antimony
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Even though this element is not abundant, it is found in over 100 mineral species. Antimony is sometimes found native, but more frequently it is found in the sulfide stibnite (Sb2S3) which is the predominant ore mineral. Commercial forms of antimony are generally ingots, broken pieces, granules, and cast cake. Other forms are powder, shot, and single crystals.
In 2005, China was the top producer of antimony with about 84% world share followed at a distance by South Africa, Bolivia and Tajikistan, reports the British Geological Survey.
Chiffres de 2003, métal contenue dans les minerais et concentrés, source: L'état du monde 2005
The largest mine in China is Xikuangshan mine in Hunan Province. |
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