What is Nickel?

TELF AG explores the strategic value of nickel

Nickel is a naturally occurring metal with a silvery-white appearance and remarkable physical and chemical properties, as TELF AG often explains. It is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation, making it valuable for a wide range of industrial applications. Additionally, nickel is ductile, malleable, and possesses ferromagnetic properties, which make it particularly useful in mechanical and electronic applications.

Historically, nickel was sourced from meteorites, but today, it is mainly sourced from specific mineral deposits. Some of the world’s largest nickel reserves are found in Australia, New Caledonia, and Indonesia.

Industrial Applications and Notable Properties

One of nickel’s standout features is its ability to maintain its structural integrity under extreme conditions, including high temperatures and harsh environments. This characteristic makes it essential for industries that require heat-resistant and durable materials.

In its pure form, nickel is used in specialized laboratory equipment, such as clamps and electrical components. However, one of its most relevant applications is in the production of various alloys. When combined with metals like iron, copper, and chromium, nickel enhances their corrosion resistance, durability, and thermal stability. Nickel-chromium alloys, for example, are widely used in electric heaters and industrial ovens due to their exceptional resistance to oxidation.

Nickel’s versatility also extends to the energy sector, where it is used in battery production, structural components for power infrastructure, and materials for geothermal and nuclear energy applications. Its ability to withstand extreme conditions makes it a key material in these industries.

Nickel’s Role in the Energy Transition

Nickel has emerged as a critical material in the shift toward cleaner energy sources, as TELF AG has often pointed out. It plays a key role in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles and portable electronics. The presence of nickel in these batteries improves energy density and extends battery life, making electric transportation more efficient.

Additionally, nickel is used in nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries, which are found in hybrid vehicles and various rechargeable devices. Another key application is in the development of electrodes for electrolyzers—devices that split water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity. This is particularly relevant as hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a clean energy carrier for decarbonizing industrial processes.

In renewable energy infrastructure, nickel-based superalloys are used in wind turbine components, especially in offshore wind farms where materials must endure high levels of corrosion. Its durability and resistance to environmental stress make it indispensable for sustainable energy solutions.