Overview
Regulus, historically termed for purified metals, most commonly refers to antimony regulus—a semi-metallic element (Sb) refined from stibnite ore. Known since antiquity, it plays a critical role in industrial applications due to its unique properties, such as flame-retardant synergism and alloy hardening. Antimony regulus is distinct from star regulus (antimony sulfide) and is traded as brittle, silvery lumps or granules. Modern production involves smelting stibnite with iron to extract crude antimony, which is further refined. China dominates global supply, accounting for over 70% of production. Its strategic importance in electronics and safety applications sustains steady B2B demand.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Antimony regulus exhibits high density (6.68 g/cm³) and a low melting point (630.63°C), making it suitable for alloying. It is brittle and a poor thermal/electrical conductor, though it becomes superconducting at low temperatures. Chemically, it resists oxidation at room temperature but reacts with halogens and acids—notably forming toxic stibine gas (SbH₃) with hydrochloric acid. Its crystalline structure is rhombohedral, contributing to its brittleness. Unlike metals like copper, antimony expands upon solidification, a property exploited in type-metal alloys for sharp casting details. Solubility is limited to specific acids, requiring careful handling in chemical processes.
Main Applications
Flame retardants consume ~60% of antimony regulus, where it synergizes with halogenated compounds in plastics, textiles, and electronics. In lead-acid batteries, it hardens lead plates (5–6% Sb), enhancing durability. Alloys like pewter (85–90% Sn, 5–10% Sb) and solder also rely on its properties. Emerging uses include semiconductor doping (e.g., silicon wafers) and catalysts for PET production. Niche applications encompass ammunition (hardening projectiles) and historical pigments. Regulatory shifts toward halogen-free retardants may impact long-term demand, though substitutes remain limited for high-temperature applications.
Safety and Storage
Antimony regulus poses toxicity risks, particularly as dust (respiratory hazard) or when ingested. Chronic exposure may affect the heart, lungs, and skin. Proper PPE (gloves, respirators) is mandatory during handling. Storage requires dry, ventilated areas away from acids to prevent stibine formation—a lethal gas detectable only above 5 ppm. Spills should be contained with inert absorbents, avoiding water to prevent dust dispersion. Disposal follows hazardous waste protocols in most jurisdictions. Transport classifications typically include UN2871 (Hazard Class 6.1) for international shipping.
B2B Procurement Guide
Buyers should prioritize purity (99.6%+ for most industrial uses) and verify assay certificates. Packaging options include 25-kg drums or 1-ton bags with moisture barriers. China remains the primary supplier, but geopolitical factors may necessitate diversifying sources (e.g., Bolivia, Tajikistan). Pricing fluctuates with energy costs and environmental policies, especially in China. Long-term contracts are advisable during market volatility. For R&D or small-scale needs, specialized metallurgical suppliers offer smaller quantities at premium rates. Always confirm REACH/OSHA compliance for your region.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：色谱仪、水分仪、光谱仪、热脱附仪、离子色谱、气相色谱、液相色谱、扫描电镜、色谱系统、液质联用仪、机械分析仪、气体质谱仪、热分析仪器、机碳分析仪、溶剂萃取仪、电子显微镜、红外显微镜、三重四极杆、气质联用仪、啤酒分析仪、质谱联用仪、热重分析仪、水质分析仪、饮料分析仪、自动进样器
- 主营：光刻机、曝光灯、匀胶旋涂仪、镀膜机、去胶机、光刻胶、涂覆仪、显影机、喷涂机、晶圆贴片贴膜机、UV解胶机、晶圆清洗机、晶圆检查机、等离子清洗机、光谱仪、半导体检测仪器、超声波扫描显微镜、扫描电镜、光学轮廓仪、台阶仪、光伏测量仪器、扫描仪、Ⅹ射线衍射仪
- 主营：日本工业品、日本KIKUSUI电源、日本SIMCO思美高、日本SSD西西蒂、日本TRINC高柳、日本Tsubosaka壶坂、日本CCS光源、日本AITEC艾泰克、日本OTSUKA大塚、日本MUSASHI武藏、日本SAN-EI TECH三英、日本HORIBA堀场、日本KOSAKA小坂台阶仪、日本USHIO牛尾、日本CEDAR思达、日本PISCO匹士克、日本KASUGA春日、日本KYOWA共和、日本AND爱安德、日本AITEC光源
- 主营：检查灯、打印机、温度计、轴接头、低压灯、水平仪、气压枪、减速机、拉力计、电子秤、过滤器、传感器、光谱仪、测厚仪、分度计、研磨机、压力表、千斤顶、恒流电源、光源装置、橡胶垫圈、检测胶带、滚珠导轨、膜厚计、亮度计
- 主营：红外光谱仪、荧光光度计、气相色谱仪、液相色谱仪、旋转流变仪、真空手套箱、元素分析仪、X射线衍射仪、切割机、加热炉、粘度计、气体吸附仪、比表面与孔隙度分析仪、台阶仪、X射线荧光光谱仪、紫外分光光度计、质谱仪、激光粒度仪
- 主营：热分析仪、分光光度计、原子吸收光谱仪、电镜
- 主营：热分析、电镜、衍射仪、粒度仪、光谱仪
- 主营：冷冻柜、路由器、管道摄、圆锯片、张力计、风速计、冷却塔、连轴器、维修台、弧焊机、升降机、电磁阀、缩空气、安全帽、燃烧器、安全带、数控铣、雕刻机、密封圈、钙化炉、电子秤、挤出机、混合机、泥浆泵、深度计
- 主营：传感器
- 主营：自动化仪器仪表、物性测试仪器、通用分析仪器、光学仪器、行业专用
- 主营：测试仪、试验箱、分切机、应力仪、测厚仪、测定机、焚烧炉、色差计、测试机、测定仪、传感器、雾度仪、包装件、盐度计、寸测量、ph分析仪、氧化铝粉、透过率计、水分析仪、测定装置、电导率计、高温烘箱、油分分析仪、氧化还原计、拉力试验机