Tantalum is a lustrous, silvery, soft metal that is resistant to chemical attack at temperatures below 150οC.
Tantalum is used in four areas: in high-temperature applications such as aircraft engines, in electrical devices such as capacitors, in surgical grafts, and the handling of corrosive chemicals. It is rarely used in alloys because it tends to make metals brittle. Tantalum resists corrosion and is almost impervious to chemical attack, so it has been used in the chemical industry.
Tantalum in the environment
As Τantalum oxide is very insoluble, there is almost no Τantalum in natural waters. Its level in soil is in a range of 0.1 to 3 ppm. Only tiny amounts of Tantalum are taken up by plants: the amount of Tantalum in vegetation rarely exceeds five ppb (parts per billion).
Impact of Τantalum on human health
Tantalum can be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed by the skin. It causes eye and skin irritation and irritates mucous membranes and the upper respiratory tract.
On contact with tissues, Τantalum is inert. Tantalum is highly biocompatible and used in various implants.
How can one determine if one has been exposed to Τantalum?
We can measure Τantalum levels in the blood and most biological materials.
Determination of metals is done by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Mass Spectrometry), a method that enables the simultaneous detection of many metals. Its sensitivity and accuracy are significantly better than conventional atomic absorption, with the ability to measure metals at concentrations up to 1 in 1015 (1 in 1 quadrillion, ppq)!
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
