Precious metals have long been associated with luxury, power, and investment value. However, their significance extends far beyond jewelry and financial assets. With their rarity, durability, excellent conductivity, and outstanding resistance to oxidation, these rare elements have become foundational materials for many cutting-edge industries. From electronic circuit boards and medical devices to spacecraft, their presence continues to shape advancements in modern science and technology. This article highlights three key industries—electronics, healthcare, and aerospace—to illustrate the vital role of these strategic materials.
I. Precious Metals in Electronics
Electronics is where precious metals demonstrate their greatest advantages, particularly in meeting the increasing demands for precision, durability, and corrosion resistance.
Precious metals in the electronics industry
1. Gold, the Optimal Conductor
Gold is highly valued for its stable conductivity and resistance to oxidation. This makes it a primary material in printed circuit boards, processors, connectors, and micro-components in smartphones and computers. Each smartphone contains a few dozen milligrams of gold—multiplied across billions of devices, it becomes clear how indispensable gold is to the electronics industry.
2. Silver, the Best Electrical Conductor
Silver surpasses gold in conductivity, making it essential for batteries, solar panels, and 5G technology. As renewable energy expands, silver demand continues to rise. With a lower cost compared to gold, silver is seen as a strategic element driving the green revolution.
3. Platinum and Palladium, catalysts in Electronics
Though less visible in daily life, platinum and palladium are crucial for technology. They are used in sensors, memory devices, and as catalysts in automotive electronics. Their heat resistance and durability ensure long-term efficiency, meeting the stringent requirements of modern electronic equipment.
>> Read more: Top 10 Most Precious Metals in the World
II. Precious Metals in Healthcare
Modern medicine heavily relies on precious metals, as their unique chemical properties add immense value to diagnostics and treatment.
Precious metals in the healthcare sector
1. Gold in Dentistry and Therapy
Gold’s chemical inertness makes it resistant to corrosion, which is why it has long been used in dentistry—such as fillings, crowns, and implants. Moreover, gold compounds are being studied for their anti-inflammatory effects, with potential applications in treating arthritis and even cancer, offering promising directions for modern medicine.
2. Silver as an Antimicrobial Agent
Silver’s antibacterial properties have been recognized for thousands of years. In healthcare, silver is used in wound dressings, surgical tools, and water filtration systems. Silver ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes, preventing growth and significantly reducing hospital-acquired infections.
3. Platinum in Cancer Treatment
One of medicine’s breakthroughs is platinum-based chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin and carboplatin. These compounds inhibit cell division, slowing tumor growth. Despite side effects, these treatments have saved millions of lives worldwide—an undeniable testament to the critical role of precious metals in healthcare.
III. Precious Metals in Aerospace
Aerospace requires materials with extreme durability, heat resistance, and corrosion protection—qualities that only precious metals can deliver.
Precious metals in the aerospace industry
1. Gold for Satellites and Spacecraft
In harsh space environments, gold is used to coat sensitive components, blocking solar radiation, regulating temperature, and preventing oxidation. Astronaut visors are coated with a thin layer of gold to filter ultraviolet rays and glare, protecting their eyes.
>> Read more: What is the Gold Foil Covering Spacecraft and Satellites?
2. Rhodium and Iridium, extreme durability
Rhodium and iridium withstand extremely high temperatures, making them essential for jet engines, rockets, and launch systems. Their resilience ensures reliability in the most demanding aerospace applications.
3. Palladium in Emission Control Systems
Palladium plays a critical role in aircraft emission systems, reducing harmful gases. It is also used in aerospace electronics, enhancing safety and efficiency in flight operations.
IV. Conclusion
From electronics and healthcare to aerospace, precious metals have proven their irreplaceable value far beyond traditional jewelry. Each element—gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, and iridium—offers unique properties that enable groundbreaking innovations. As the world moves toward greener, safer, and more sustainable technologies, the role of precious metals will become even more prominent.
V. PMAC – Comprehensive Solutions for Precious Metals
PMAC – Comprehensive solutions for the precious metals sector
To meet the growing demand for precious metals and advanced technologies, PMAC is proud to be a leading provider in Vietnam. We supply not only high-quality precious metals but also complete solutions, including:
- Industrial materials for manufacturing and processing
- Specialized jewelry equipment such as spectrometers and gold testing machines
- Advanced analytical and laboratory equipment meeting international standards
- Premium dental devices supporting healthcare and dentistry
With a team of experienced experts, dedicated consulting services, and a commitment to genuine products, PMAC has become a trusted partner for businesses, laboratories, and production facilities across Vietnam and beyond.
Contact PMAC today for tailored solutions and exclusive offers!
PMAC Joint Stock Company
Address: High-Tech Center, 4th Floor, HUTECH Building, D1 Street, High-Tech Park, Long Thanh My Ward, Thu Duc City, Vietnam
Website: https://pmac.asia/
Hotline: 0908727235