Vanadium

Vanadium is a chemical element that has the symbol V and atomic number 23. A soft and ductile element, vanadium naturally occurs in certain minerals and is used mainly to produce certain alloys. Approximately 80% of vanadium produced is used as ferrovanadium or as a steel additive. Other uses: In such alloys as specialty stainless steel, e.g. for use in surgical instruments and tools. Such tools are rust resistant and high speed tool steels. Mixed with aluminium in titanium alloys used in jet engines and high-speed airframes .Used in dental alloys. Vanadium steel alloys are used in axles, crankshafts, gears, and other critical components. It is an important carbide stabilizer in making steels. Because of its low fission neutron cross section, vanadium has nuclear applications. Vanadium foil is used in cladding titanium to steel.