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Indium Powder[2]

Updated: 2026-09-10

Overview

Indium Powder is a finely divided form of indium metal, valued for its unique combination of properties including low melting point, high electrical conductivity, and malleability. It is primarily produced through atomization or electrolytic processes, with purity levels ranging from 99.9% to ultra-high purity (99.999%). The material is critical in advanced technological applications, particularly where precise material properties are required. Its ability to form alloys with other metals and its role in semiconductor fabrication make it indispensable in modern electronics and specialty manufacturing sectors.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Indium Powder exhibits a silvery-white appearance but may develop a slight gray tint due to surface oxidation. It has a density of 7.31 g/cm³ and melts at 156.6°C, making it one of the lower-melting-point metals. The powder is insoluble in water but dissolves readily in mineral acids. Key characteristics include its excellent ductility and softness (Mohs hardness of 1.2), which allow it to be easily compressed or worked. The material shows remarkable thermal and electrical conductivity properties, though these can be affected by particle size and purity levels in powder form.

Main Applications

The primary use of Indium Powder is in the electronics industry, where it serves as a component in solder alloys for low-temperature applications. Its ability to wet various surfaces makes it ideal for bonding semiconductor chips and creating reliable electrical connections. In semiconductor manufacturing, high-purity indium powder is used for doping processes and in the production of indium tin oxide (ITO), a transparent conductive coating for displays. Other applications include thermal interface materials, nuclear reactor control rods, and specialized alloys for dental and medical applications.

Safety and Storage

While indium is not considered highly toxic, the powder form presents inhalation risks and requires careful handling. Proper personal protective equipment including gloves, safety glasses, and respiratory protection should be used when working with the material. Storage recommendations include keeping the powder in sealed containers under argon or nitrogen atmosphere to prevent oxidation. The material should be kept away from acids and strong oxidizing agents. In case of fire, use dry chemical extinguishers as water may react with molten indium.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing Indium Powder, industrial buyers should specify required purity levels (typically 99.99% or higher for electronic applications), particle size distribution (usually ranging from 1-100 microns), and packaging requirements (often vacuum-sealed or inert gas-filled containers). Key procurement considerations include verifying supplier certifications, batch consistency, and traceability. Due to price volatility in minor metals, buyers should monitor market trends and consider long-term contracts for stable supply. Testing for oxygen content and metallic impurities is recommended for critical applications.

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