What Is Mercury?
Mercury has been used for centuries due to its distinct properties. While its dangers are well known, it remains essential in specialized fields where no suitable substitutes exist.
Mercury (Hg) is a unique metal known for its liquid state at room temperature. It has a shiny silver appearance and excellent heat and electrical conductivity. Despite its toxicity, mercury remains valuable in various applications. Its uses range from lighting and scientific instruments to industrial processes. However, strict regulations and alternative technologies aim to reduce its risks.
Main Applications
Medical and Laboratory Equipment
Mercury is used in certain medical and laboratory precision instruments. For example, some blood pressure monitors (although increasingly replaced by aneroid models) and specific analytical devices utilize mercury’s properties for accurate measurement. Additionally, mercury-based equipment is employed in specialized research fields.
Fluorescent Lamps and Lighting
Fluorescent and UV lamps contain small amounts of mercury, which generates ultraviolet light when electrified, causing the phosphor coating to emit visible light. Mercury lamps produce high-intensity light and are still used in industrial settings, street lighting, and projectors for specialized applications.
Industrial Processes (Electrolysis and Catalysis)
In some industrial processes, mercury is used as a cathode in electrolytic cells. Historically, the mercury process was used to produce chlorine and sodium hydroxide from sodium chloride solutions, though alternative technologies are now widely adopted. Mercury is also utilized as a catalyst in specific chemical processes.
Precision Instruments (Switches and Relays)
Due to its excellent conductivity, mercury was historically used in electrical switches and relays. Today, it is still employed in specific applications where durability and high reliability are required, such as in harsh environments.
Gold Refining and Mining
In some countries, mercury is used for gold extraction. Since mercury readily bonds with gold, it is employed in the amalgamation process to separate gold from ore. However, due to its significant environmental impact, international regulations have been introduced to phase out its use in gold mining.
Thus, mercury continues to play a vital role in specific industries. While its unique properties make it indispensable in certain applications, its safe and responsible use remains essential.
How Is It Manufactured?
Mercury is primarily refined from a naturally occurring ore called cinnabar. Below is the process from raw material extraction to the final product.
1. Mining
Mercury is found in an ore called cinnabar (mercury sulfide). First, cinnabar is extracted from mines to secure the necessary quantity for processing. This ore is distinguished by its red color and is sourced from specific regions where it naturally occurs.
Cinnabar is a red-colored mineral primarily composed of mercury sulfide (HgS) and serves as the main raw material for mercury production.
2. Crushing and Heating
The extracted cinnabar is finely crushed and then heated in a furnace at high temperatures. During this process, mercury sulfide decomposes, releasing mercury vapor and sulfur dioxide gas.
3. Cooling and Condensation of Mercury Vapor
The generated mercury vapor is directed into a cooling system, where it is cooled and condensed into liquid form. At this stage, the extracted mercury takes on its characteristic silver sheen and is collected as a liquid.
4. Purification and Removal of Impurities
The condensed mercury may contain impurities. To obtain high-purity mercury, it undergoes filtration and distillation processes. These steps ensure the thorough removal of any unwanted substances, resulting in refined mercury.
5. Filling and Shipment
The purified high-grade mercury is sealed in specialized airtight containers designed to prevent leaks and evaporation during transportation and storage. It is then shipped to industries and sectors where it is required.
From mining to refinement and final product processing, mercury production requires precise and carefully controlled procedures.
Contact us for more details or inquiries on Mercury in Thailand.
