Then and Now – The Periodic Table Element – Aluminum

January 17, 2024 · by sybrinapublishing

The Evolution of Aluminum: From Novelty to Modern Marvel

Aluminum, an abundant and versatile metal, has played a significant role in the development of various industries over the years. Initially hailed as a unique and valuable resource, it was once considered a precious metal, more valuable than gold. However, despite its early popularity, aluminum’s application in certain areas has gradually diminished. In this article, we explore the fascinating history of aluminum’s initial uses and the reasons behind its waning popularity in those particular domains.

Discovered in the early 19th century, aluminum was a source of curiosity and awe due to its unique properties. In 1825, Danish physicist and chemist Hans Christian Ørsted managed to successfully extract small aluminum wisps using a chemical process, marking the beginning of aluminum’s journey into the industrial world. Subsequently, in 1854, French chemist Henri Étienne Sainte-Claire Deville developed a more efficient method of aluminum extraction, making its production more accessible.

During the mid-19th century, aluminum saw a surge in popularity as a valuable and desirable material. It was widely used for decorative purposes, most notably in jewelry and luxury items. Its non-corrosive nature, lightweight, and malleability made it an attractive medium for intricate designs and artistic expression.

Aluminum was embraced in the construction of grand buildings and monuments, such as the Washington Monument in the United States. The metal was considered prestigious due to its rarity and was often associated with opulence and elegance.

Alumna The Aluminum-Horned Unicorn from the Magical Elements of the Periodic Table

Reasons for Aluminum’s Fading Popularity:

Availability and Cost: Initially, aluminum was incredibly expensive to extract, surpassing even the price of gold. This high production cost significantly limited its applications and made it inaccessible. However, advancements in technology, particularly the development of a more efficient extraction process, saw a decline in production costs, making aluminum more affordable.
Alloy Advancements: Competing materials, such as steel, were developed and refined, offering greater strength and durability than pure aluminum alone. These alloys that combined aluminum with other elements provided superior tensile strength, making them better suited for applications requiring structural integrity. In contrast, the softness of pure aluminum limited its use in areas where strength was essential.
Diverse Material Options: Over time, new materials such as plastics and composites emerged, presenting alternatives that were lighter, cheaper, and sometimes more versatile for specific applications. As these new materials gained popularity, they gradually displaced aluminum in certain sectors, especially those that demanded lightweight solutions.
Electrical Conductivity: While aluminum initially found use in small-scale electrical applications, such as electrical wires and connections, its electrical conductivity is inferior to other metals such as copper. This shortcoming restricted its widespread adoption in larger-scale electrical infrastructure, where copper remained the material of choice.

Although its initial uses have somewhat diminished, aluminum has not lost its relevance in modern times. It has found new life in various sectors, particularly in transportation industries, where its lightweight yet strong properties make it ideal for aircraft construction, automotive components, and high-speed trains. Moreover, aluminum is extensively used in consumer electronics, packaging, and renewable energy sectors due to its excellent corrosion resistance and recyclability.

The early uses of aluminum showcased its appealing qualities, but factors such as cost, technological advancements, and the emergence of new materials have contributed to its diminishing popularity in certain areas. Nonetheless, aluminum continues to be indispensable in many other sectors, demonstrating its resilience and adaptability. Its legacy as a functional, sustainable, and versatile metal propels it forward, paving the way for innovative applications in the years to come.

This article is brought to you by Sybrina Durant, the author of the middle grade picture book, Magical Elements of the Periodic Table Presented Alphabetically By The Metal Horn Unicorns. Learn More. In that book Aluminum is presented by the unicorn, Alumna. Alumna is one of the metal horn unicorns featured in the Journey To Osm collection of books by Sybrina Durant. Read Alumna’s Story.