Elemental Analysis - Thallium (Tl)

Thallium is a very soft, bluish-white metal that can be cut with a knife. Reacts readily with air, water (especially steam), and most acids. Thallium is similar in appearance to lead, but in chemical properties similar to aluminum. Thallium is used in low-melting photocells, infrared detectors, solders, and glass. When thallium is mixed with mercury, it lowers the freezing point of mercury by twenty degrees.

Thallium sulfate has been used as a rodent and ant killer because it is odorless and tasteless. In addition, thallium salts have also been used in the treatment of skin infections. However, due to its high toxicity rate compared to these benefits, the use of thallium was later discontinued.

Thallium is mainly obtained as a byproduct of zinc and lead processing. Thallium minerals are rare. It is generally found in alkali metal minerals, especially potassium and cesium minerals. Manganese lumps on the ocean floor also contain significant amounts of thallium.

Thallium is a toxic metal and should not come into direct contact with the skin. There are also suspicions that it is carcinogenic.

In short, thallium element and its compounds are toxic and should be handled with care.

In the tests and analyzes carried out in our institution, 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 thallium (Tl) testing services within the framework of elemental analysis.