Nickel: An Historical Review

Nickel was identified as an element in the 18th century and has since been used in weapons, implements, and space capsules. It was discovered in 1963 and has since been used in a variety of applications, including nickel silver, electroplating, steel, and architecture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Nickel, first published in 1963, offers a comprehensive and accessible account of the metal's development from ancient times to the present day. Archaeological excavations at the 3500-year-old sites of Ur and Kish in Sumeria have uncovered weapons and implements containing trace amounts of nickel. In 1962, a significant milestone occurred when the first United States manned space capsule, the Mercury, successfully orbited the Earth. The capsule's construction utilized nickel alloys to withstand the harsh conditions of exposure to elevated temperatures, dynamic and acoustical stress, and fatigue.

Nickel's discovery as an element dates back to the 18th century, and the journey leading to its identification is vividly described in the book. The author's visit to the Freiburg Bergakademie in Eastern Germany sheds new light on the origin of Kupfer Nickel, a nickel-iron alloy that was once despised by early Saxon miners. Nickeliferous occurrences across Europe, the South Pacific, and North America are explored, accompanied by charts and flowheets that illustrate the progress in production and methods of extracting this valuable matter from its complex compounds. In addition to scientific and economic facts, Nickel weaves in the quirks of human history, providing an informative and imaginative perspective on the development of the metal.

The book encompasses a wide range of applications of nickel in today's world. It discusses nickel silver, electroplating, the steel industry, and its numerous uses in industry, architecture, and the home. Nickel's versatility and importance in various industries are highlighted, making it a valuable resource for scientists, engineers, and enthusiasts alike.

Overall, Nickel is a comprehensive and engaging work that provides a deep understanding of the metal's history, science, and applications. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in metals, engineering, and the fascinating interplay between human history and technological advancements.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032638744