Nickel is a lustrous, silvery-white metal with a slight golden tinge. It belongs to the transition metals and is located in Group 10 of the periodic table. Its atomic number is 28 and it has the symbol Ni.
Nickel is found in the Earth's crust and is predominantly mined from two types of ore deposits: laterites and sulfide deposits. It is widely used in various industrial applications, including the production of stainless steel, alloy materials, rechargeable batteries, and as a catalyst in chemical reactions. Additionally, nickel is used in the minting of coins and in the production of nickel-based superalloys for high-temperature applications.
While nickel is an essential element for many living organisms, excessive exposure to nickel and its compounds can have harmful effects on human health and the environment. Inhalation or ingestion of nickel particles can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, and prolonged exposure to high levels of nickel may lead to allergic reactions and skin sensitization. Environmental concerns related to nickel mining and processing include habitat destruction and potential water and soil contamination.