Nickel is strong, resistant to rust and can be combined with other metals to create useful alloys. Here we explore how nickel is used in our daily lives.
Uses of Nickel
One of the most common uses of nickel is in stainless steel. This type of steel is found in kitchen appliances, cutlery, sinks and even some types of jewellery. Nickel is also used in coins, though modern coins often contain only a small amount of it. In addition, nickel is found in batteries, especially rechargeable ones. Nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries also power many small electronics like remote controls and cordless phones. Another important application is electroless nickel plating by companies such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/electroless-nickel-plating/, a process that coats metal surfaces with a protective nickel layer to enhance durability and corrosion resistance.
Medical Equipment and Electronics
Nickel is also used in medical tools and implants because it is strong, durable and safe for use inside the human body. Items such as surgical instruments and artificial joints often contain nickel-based alloys. Many everyday electronics, such as smartphones, laptops and tablets, contain nickel. It is used in circuit boards and connectors because it helps conduct electricity efficiently.
Electric Vehicle Batteries
Nickel is important in the development of electric vehicle batteries, and their use makes EVs more efficient and capable of travelling longer distances on a single charge. The most common type of battery used in EVs today is the lithium-ion battery, which often contains nickel, cobalt and manganese. Nickel is especially important because it helps increase the battery capacity, allowing EVs to store more energy and therefore extend their driving range.
High-nickel batteries, such as nickel-cobalt-aluminium and nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries, are widely used by the leading EV manufacturers. These batteries will improve the performance of a car while reducing reliance on the expensive and less abundant materials like cobalt. Nickel-rich batteries are also more cost-effective and are a big reason that EVs are becoming more affordable for consumers.
As the demand for electric vehicles grows, so does the need for nickel.