Vanadium is a transition metal that plays a vital role in a range of industrial and technological applications. From strengthening steel to powering batteries, this versatile element has become increasingly important in modern society. But where does vanadium come from, and how is it produced? In this article, we’ll explore the sources and applications of vanadium, as well as its importance in various industries and its impact on the environment.
What is Vanadium?
Vanadium is a chemical element with the symbol V and atomic number 23. It is a hard, silvery-gray metal that is commonly found in minerals such as vanadinite, patronite, and carnotite. Vanadium is often used as an alloying agent in steel production, where it imparts increased strength and durability. It is also used in the production of superalloys, which are used in aerospace applications due to their high strength and temperature resistance.
Ferro-Alloy Resources Ltd (LON:FAR) is developing the giant Balasausqandiq vanadium deposit in Kyzylordinskaya oblast of southern Kazakhstan. The ore at this deposit is unlike that of nearly all other primary vanadium deposits and is capable of being treated by a much lower cost process.