A versatile element for specialised applications
Depending on the application, antimony can act as a catalyst, pigment component, opacifier, stabiliser or processing aid, among other functions.
This versatility means that antimony contributes to the manufacture and performance of many everyday and industrial products, often without being visible in the final product.
PET and polyester production
One important chemical application of antimony is in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Antimony trioxide (ATO) and other antimony compounds can be used as catalysts in the polymerisation process used to manufacture PET. The catalyst facilitates the chemical reaction needed to efficiently produce the polymer.
PET is a versatile material used to manufacture:
- beverage and food containers;
- packaging films;
- polyester textile fibres;
- industrial fibres and fabrics; and
- numerous other plastic products.
Antimony-based catalysts have a long history of industrial use in PET production, where consistent purity and catalyst performance are important for maintaining stable production processes and product quality.
Did you know?
PET bottles and polyester clothing belong to the same polymer family.
PET used for packaging and polyester used in textiles are both based on polyethylene terephthalate. This means antimony-based catalysts can play a role in manufacturing materials found in applications ranging from recyclable beverage bottles to clothing and technical textiles.
Pigments
Antimony compounds are also used in the production of certain inorganic pigments.
Antimony trioxide can be used as a raw material in pigment manufacturing, including in combination with other elements to produce stable inorganic colours. Depending on their composition, these pigments can provide colours ranging from yellow through red and brown.
Inorganic pigments are particularly valued in applications requiring durability and colour stability, including resistance to high temperatures, ultraviolet radiation and weathering.
Such pigments can be used in applications including coatings, plastics, ceramics and construction materials.
Glass & ceramics
Antimony compounds also have established uses in glass, ceramics and vitreous enamels. Depending on the formulation and manufacturing process, they can serve functions including opacification and other processing or optical effects.
Antimony compounds have historically been used in specialised glass manufacturing, while antimony-containing materials can also contribute to the colour and appearance of ceramics and enamels.
These applications demonstrate how antimony can influence not only the manufacturing process but also the final appearance and performance of materials.
Specialised chemical applications
Beyond these major uses, antimony compounds perform a variety of specialised functions in chemical and industrial processes.
Depending on the particular antimony substance and application, these can include use as:
- catalysts and chemical intermediates;
- processing aids;
- stabilisers;
- components of specialised pigments and coatings;
- additives in glass, ceramics and enamels; and
- components in specialised industrial materials.
The appropriate antimony substance depends on the function required, the manufacturing process and the characteristics expected from the final material.
Small quantities, important functions
A characteristic shared by many antimony applications is that only relatively small quantities are needed to deliver a specific technical function.
Whether enabling an efficient polymerisation reaction, contributing to a durable pigment or providing particular properties to glass and ceramics, antimony can play a small but important role within much larger material value chains. i2a highlights this enabling role across antimony applications.
Responsible use throughout the value chain
As with all industrial chemicals, antimony substances must be manufactured and used in accordance with applicable chemicals, occupational and environmental legislation.
i2a works with producers, importers and downstream users to support the safe use and responsible management of antimony substances throughout their lifecycle, providing scientific and regulatory information and promoting product stewardship across the antimony value chain.
