Aluminium

Aluminium was first discovered in 1825 by the Danish chemist Hans Christian Ørsted, who reduced anhydrous aluminium chloride with potassium. However, it was not until 1827 that the German chemist Friedrich Wöhler successfully isolated aluminium by reducing aluminium chloride with potassium, a significant achievement in the study of metals. The name 'aluminium' is derived from 'alum', a compound containing potassium, aluminium, and sulfate. In the early 19th century, aluminium was an extremely rare and precious metal, even more valuable than gold and silver. It was not until the Hall-Héroult process was developed in 1886, allowing for the economical extraction of aluminium from its ores, that it became widely available and used in many applications.

Aluminium is not found in its free form in nature due to its reactivity but is primarily extracted from bauxite ore, which consists mostly of aluminium oxide. This ore is rich in various minerals and is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. In the Earth's crust, aluminium accounts for about 8.1% of its weight, making it the most abundant metal and the third most abundant element overall. Other sources of aluminium include clay minerals and feldspar, which are important in the formation of soil and rocks.

Aluminium is not considered an essential element for the growth and development of living organisms. However, trace amounts of aluminium have been found in plants, animals, and humans, indicating its presence in biological systems. The effects of aluminium on health are still being studied, as excessive exposure to aluminium has been associated with various health issues, including neurotoxicity and potential links to Alzheimer's disease, although this remains a contentious area of research. In contrast, its compounds are often utilized in medicine, such as aluminium hydroxide, which is used as an antacid.

Aluminium is characterized by its low density (approximately 2.7 grams per cubic centimeter) and high electrical and thermal conductivity. It has a melting point of 660.3 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 2519 degrees Celsius. Aluminium exhibits excellent corrosion resistance due to the formation of a thin oxide layer on its surface when exposed to air, which protects the underlying metal. It is a ductile metal, meaning it can be drawn into wires or rolled into thin sheets. Chemically, aluminium is reactive and readily forms compounds with a variety of elements, including oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur.

Aluminium is widely used across various industries due to its lightweight properties, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. It is extensively utilized in the manufacturing of aircraft, automobiles, and packaging materials, such as aluminum foil and cans. The construction industry benefits from aluminium's strength-to-weight ratio and durability, making it ideal for window frames, roofing, and siding. In addition, aluminium is a critical component in electrical transmission lines, cookware, and consumer electronics. The recycling of aluminium is particularly efficient, as it maintains its properties and requires significantly less energy to process compared to new aluminium production.

• Aluminium is the most abundant metal in the Earth's crust, yet it was once more precious than gold.
• The Hall-Héroult process, developed in 1886, revolutionized aluminium production and made it economically viable.
• Aluminium can be recycled indefinitely without losing its properties, making it an environmentally friendly material.
• The name 'aluminium' comes from the Latin word 'alumen', meaning 'bitter salt'.
• Aluminium has a unique property called 'work hardening', which increases its strength when deformed.