Cobalt, which has the element symbol Co, is a metal usually obtained through mining nickel, silver, lead, copper and iron. Discovered in the 18th century, it gave glass a deep blue color.
Today, cobalt's uses range from health and nutrition to industry. The US government treats cobalt as a strategic metal because a shortage would affect the economy, industry and defense of the country. Most cobalt used in the United States is imported.
Alloys, or mixtures of metals, make up half the cobalt used each year. Some alloys go into making jet engines and gas turbine engines. Another alloy, called Alnico, consists of of aluminum, nickel and cobalt and is strongly magnetic. Alnico magnets can be found in hearing aids, compasses and microphones. Cutting tools can be made with stellite alloys, which contain cobalt, chromium and tungsten.
Here are some other common uses for Cobalt (from Sciencing.com)
Alternative Energy
Cobalt improves the performance of rechargeable batteries and plays an important role in hybrid electric vehicles.
Orthopedic Implants
Cobalt
alloys are used in orthopedic implants alongside titanium and stainless
steel. The Idaho Cobalt Project states that approximately 70 percent of
hip replacements use cobalt-chrome femoral stems.
Radiation Therapy and Sterilization
Cobalt-60, a radioactive form of the element, can treat some forms of cancer. The substance can also sterilize medical supplies.
Nutrition
Cobalt
chloride, sulfate, acetate or nitrate can correct mineral deficiency in
grazing animals living on cobalt-deficient soil. Cobalt is an essential
part of vitamin B12.
Art Material
Cobalt salts are used to produce vivid shades of blue in porcelain, glass, pottery and tiles.
There are many options to invest in Cobalt so do some homework
Disclosure: As a lead in to this market potential we like a broad brush and so we have bought
We have also bought shares in one smallcap miner of Cobalt as a potential takeover target. We are investigating other avenues into this market.
