Rhodium

Rhodium is a silvery white metal with high reflectance that is hard and durable. It is a major component of catalytic systems, such as the BP-Monsanto process in industry and as part of the system in car catalytic converters used to clean up exhaust gases.

Rhodium is used as an alloying agent to harden platinum and palladium. These alloys have various applications including use for thermocouple elements, laboratory crucibles, and furnace windings. Rhodium is also used for electroplating where it provides a hard surface, resistant to oxidation.