Abstract

Indium, indium alloys, and indium compounds exhibit a wide range of diverse properties. For example, the metal retains plasticity at cryogenic temperatures and many compounds with the metalloids are semiconducting. Applications vary from the use of the metal in the control rods of nuclear reactors, to that of alloys as solders, and of indium trioxide as an electrically conductive film for glass and plastic.

Indium is referred to as a minor metal and is basically a by-product of the zinc and lead-zinc industries. Properties are described. Uses and production are discussed. Expanded economic data is given. Indium metal poses little or no environmental risks but some forms may pose dangers to the environment.