Uses of antimony
Antimony is a niche but important industrial material. Most demand is for antimony compounds, especially antimony trioxide, rather than pure metal.
Flame retardants
Antimony trioxide is used as a synergist with halogenated flame-retardant systems in plastics, textiles, rubber, coatings, and electronics housings.
Lead alloys
Antimony hardens lead and improves strength in lead-acid battery grids, ammunition, cable sheathing, bearings, and other alloy applications.
Defense & security
Antimony’s role in ammunition, flame-resistant materials, electronics, night-vision/infrared materials, and hardened alloys contributes to strategic importance.
Glass, ceramics & pigments
Antimony compounds are used as fining agents, opacifiers, pigments, and additives in specialty glass and ceramics.
Catalysts & chemicals
Antimony compounds can be used in catalysts, including polyester/PET-related chemistry, and other industrial chemical processes.
Semiconductors & materials
Specialized antimony compounds appear in semiconductors, infrared detectors, thermoelectric materials, and emerging advanced-material research.
Health and environmental considerations
Antimony is useful, but exposure and waste must be controlled. Occupational exposure to some antimony compounds can affect the lungs, skin, eyes, and gastrointestinal system. Antimony trioxide is classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Mining, smelting, coal combustion, incineration, and industrial use can contribute to environmental releases.