Elemental Analysis - Niobium (Nb)

Niobium is a silvery-white, shiny metal that is very resistant to corrosion due to an oxide layer that forms on its surface when exposed to air. Niobium is used in a variety of alloys, including stainless steel. It increases the strength of alloys especially at low temperatures. Niobium-containing alloys are used in jet engines and rockets, columns and beams for buildings and oil rigs, and oil and gas pipelines.

This element also has superconducting properties. It is used in superconducting magnets for particle accelerators, magnetic resonance imaging devices, and nuclear magnetic resonance equipment.

To increase the refractive index, niobium oxide compounds are added to the glass, which makes it possible to make thinner and corrective glasses.

Niobium has no known biological role.

The main source of this element is the mineral columbite. This mineral also contains tantalum and the two elements are mined together. Some niobium is also produced as a byproduct of tin extraction.

This element has been called columbium (Cb) for about 100 years in the US, while it has been called niobium in Europe. In 1949, its name was officially changed to niobium. Still, many experts and organizations refer to it as columbium.

In the tests and analyzes carried out in our organization, which has a wide range of technological equipment, trained and experienced staff and applies the most modern methods, national and international standards and legal regulations in force are complied with. Among the numerous tests carried out in this context, there are also niobium (Nb) testing services within the framework of elemental analysis.