Niobium is a refractory rare metal with a steel gray luster, with a melting point of 2467. C， The density is 8.6 grams per cubic centimeter. Niobium has good low-temperature plasticity and can be processed into various semi-finished products under cold pressure. High temperature resistance, high strength, and sufficient strength, plasticity, and thermal conductivity even above 1000 ℃. Superconductivity is best at extremely low temperatures, such as near zero resistance at around minus 260 ℃. Resistant to chemical and atmospheric corrosion below 150 ℃. It is stable to many acid and salt solutions at room temperature, but soluble in hydrogen embrittlement. Stable oxide film is generated during anodization.
Niobium, as an additive in iron-based, nickel based, and zirconium based superalloys, can improve their strength performance. Niobium is suitable as a structural material for reactors and nuclear fuel cladding materials in the atomic energy industry, as well as thermal protection and structural materials in the aviation and aerospace industries.
