You may have heard of cobalt before, but you might not know what it is or why it’s important. Cobalt is a metal that is found in nature, and it has a variety of uses. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at cobalt and some of its key benefits.
Cobalt is used in a variety of industries, but one of the most important uses for cobalt is in the production of batteries. Lithium-ion batteries power everything from phones to laptops to electric cars, and cobalt is a key component in these batteries. Without cobalt, modern life as we know it would be impossible.
Cobalt is also used in the production of steel and alloys. Cobalt-based alloys are strong and resistant to heat and corrosion, which makes them ideal for use in a variety of applications.
Finally, cobalt is used in the production of pigments. Cobalt blue is a popular color used in art and design, and cobalt pigments are also used in ceramics and glassmaking.
What is Cobalt?
Cobalt is a chemical element with the symbol Co and atomic number 27. It is a hard, lustrous, and silver-gray metal. Cobalt is used in making strong magnets, as well as in pigments and alloys. Small amounts of cobalt are found in almost every human being. Cobalt is an essential trace element for many animals and plants. For example, it helps create vitamin B12.
Where is Cobalt Found?
Cobalt can be found naturally in the earth’s crust in minerals such as cobaltite. It is also found in several ores including nickel cobalt sulfide and copper cobalt sulfide. The world’s major producers of cobalt are Congo, China, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
Health Benefits of Cobalt
Cobalt has many benefits for our health. For example, it helps form red blood cells and keeps them healthy. It also helps the body use iron properly. Cobalt is also necessary for the development of a healthy nervous system. A lack of cobalt can lead to anemia or other blood disorders.
Cobalt Deficiency
While cobalt deficiency is rare, it can occur in people who have problems absorbing nutrients from food or who don’t eat a balanced diet. Symptoms of cobalt deficiency include anemia, fatigue, and weakness. People who have had gastric bypass surgery or who have Crohn’s disease or other gastrointestinal disorders are at increased risk for cobalt deficiency. Cobalt deficiency can also occur in pregnant women and infants.
Cobalt Supplements
If you think you might be deficient in cobalt, talk to your doctor about whether taking supplements might be right for you. Cobalt supplements are available in oral and injectable forms. The recommended daily allowance for cobalt is 2-3 micrograms per day for adults. Pregnant women and infants may need more.
Too Much Cobalt?
It’s possible to get too much cobalt, though this is usually only seen in people who work with cobalt on a regular basis, such as miners or those who work in factories where cobalt is used. People who take supplements containing high levels of cobalt (more than 100 micrograms per day) may also be at risk for toxicity. Symptoms of cobalt toxicity include kidney damage, heart problems, and nervous system disorders.
Bottom Line
As you can see, cobalt is a versatile metal with a variety of uses. It’s an essential component in many industries, and its importance will only continue to grow in the years to come. If you’re interested in learning more about cobalt or investing in this metal, be sure to do your research and speak with a qualified professional.
