What Platinum Alloys Are Found in Platinum Scrap?

Recycling and RefiningRecycle Refine PlatinumPlatinum Scrap
Written By Barry Lenson

When you go hunting for platinum scrap, chances are you are expecting to find scrap that is made of bright, white, shiny metal. And you’re right to be expecting that. After all, that is what platinum looks like.

But if you think that way, you are overlooking the fact that valuable platinum scrap is not always made of pure platinum. In fact, the scrap you are looking for will often be made of an alloy comprised of platinum and other metals. Those alloys might not be bright, white, and shiny. But make no mistake about it, those platinum alloys are well worth recycling. 

When you send platinum alloy scrap to Specialty Metals Smelters and Refiners, you will be pleased at the high return you will make on it. 

Here are some common platinum alloys that we can process and recycle for you:

  • Platinum-Cobalt (Pt-Co): This alloy is used in magnetic materials, electrical contacts, and specialized electronic components. It exhibits magnetic properties and has excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.

  • Platinum-Iridium (Pt-Ir): This is a popular alloy used in applications such as spark plugs, electrodes, and medical instruments. It offers enhanced durability and resistance to corrosion.

  • Platinum-Nickel (Pt-Ni): This alloy is commonly used in the production of laboratory equipment, electrical contacts, and spark plugs. It offers improved strength and resistance to temperature extremes.

  • Platinum-Palladium (Pt-Pd): This alloy is used in various industrial applications, including jewelry making, electrical contacts, and chemical catalysts.

  • Platinum-Ruthenium (Pt-Ru): This alloy is commonly used in the manufacture of catalytic converters for automobiles. It helps improve the catalytic properties of platinum and enhances its resistance to poisons, such as lead and sulfur.

It's worth noting that the composition of platinum scrap can vary widely depending on the specific source, such as industrial processes, jewelry, or electronic components. Additionally, the presence and proportions of these alloys in platinum scrap may also depend on the region and the specific manufacturing practices in that area.

And What Are Some Good Places to Look for Platinum and Platinum Alloy Scrap?

Platinum scrap can be found in various places, depending on the source and your specific area. Here are some common sources where you might find platinum scrap:

  • Jewelry Stores: Jewelry stores often have old or damaged platinum jewelry that they may be willing to sell or recycle as scrap.

  • Pawn Shops: Pawn shops sometimes acquire platinum items through loans or purchases. They may have platinum jewelry, watches, or other items that can be sold as scrap.

  • Industrial Surplus: Industrial settings, such as manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, or electronics recycling centers, often generate platinum scrap. This can include discarded or obsolete parts, catalysts, thermocouples, or lab equipment.

  • Automotive Industry: The automotive industry uses platinum in catalytic converters, which can be a valuable source of platinum scrap. However, it may be challenging to obtain scrap from this sector without proper connections or licenses.

  • Dental Offices/Laboratories: Dental offices and laboratories use platinum in dental crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations. They may have old or damaged dental work that can be sold as scrap.

  • Electronics Recycling: Platinum can be found in various electronic components, such as thermocouples, connectors, and sensors. Electronic recycling centers or companies that specialize in e-waste management may have platinum-containing scrap.

When looking for platinum scrap, it's important to keep in mind that some sources may require special permissions, licenses, or certifications to purchase or handle certain types of scrap materials. Additionally, building relationships with local businesses, scrap dealers, or metal recyclers can help you find potential sources of platinum scrap.

And When You Find Platinum and Platinum Alloy Scrap, Call Us at 800-426-2344

Call Specialty Metals Smelters and Refiners. We are the most experienced platinum recycling company doing business today. Let our expert advisors help you understand the kind of platinum scrap you have – and reclaim the platinum it contains for the biggest payout possible. 

Barry Lenson
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