Take These Steps to Avoid Being Poisoned by Platinum Scrap

Recycle Refine PlatinumRecycle Precious MetalsPlatinum Scrap
Written By Barry Lenson

Is platinum toxic?

In its pure form, platinum is inert and does not react with most chemicals or substances, including acids and bases. This property makes it highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish. Consequently, platinum is often used in medical and dental implants, such as pacemakers, stents, and dental crowns, due to its biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion.

While platinum is generally considered to be non-toxic and has a low potential for causing adverse health effects, in some platinum compounds it may have toxic properties. For example, certain platinum salts or complexes used in industrial processes or chemotherapy drugs may have toxic effects. These compounds are not commonly encountered in everyday situations or in pure platinum metal.

However, it is important to handle any chemicals or compounds containing platinum with care and follow proper safety precautions, especially in industrial or laboratory settings where exposure to platinum compounds might occur. As with any material, it's best to consult relevant safety guidelines and regulations specific to the platinum compounds you are working with to ensure safe handling and disposal practices. And those compounds include platinum scrap and all platinum-containing compounds that can include:

  • Platinum grindings and powders.

  • Platinum-containing liquids and chemical compounds.

  • Gases that are released when liquids, powders, and other substances are heated, burned, or part of chemical reactions.

How Can These Poisonous Chemicals Enter Your Body?

Remember, these toxic chemicals can be absorbed into your body when you breathe them or when your skin is exposed to them. 

How can you protect yourself? The most basic precautions are to avoid handling or processing platinum scrap. 

One of the most effective ways to avoid poisoning is simply to let a modern, state-of-the-art precious metal recycling company like Specialty Metals Smelters and Refiners test and process your platinum scrap for you. Simply send your platinum scrap to us so we can safely and remotely handle the testing and processing for you. 

Please take steps to protect your health! If you have platinum scrap to process, call us at 800-426-2344 to learn more. 

Barry Lenson
Previous

What Are the Greatest Books Ever Written about Gold?
Next

What Platinum Alloys Are Found in Platinum Scrap?