Minerals: Vanadium

1. Introduction.
Vanadates are a source of vanadium (V) which is a common element in the earths crust but it is only found in small quantities. Vanadium is used in industry to strengthen steel, it is used in making an iron alloy called ferrovanadium. Vanadium does not readily react with any other chemicals but it can absorb neutrons; it can be used in nuclear reactors. South Africa has one of the richest sources of minerals containing vanadium.
Vanadates are mined for other important elements which include zinc, copper, lead and uranium. …