Nickel

Nickel is mainly used to make corrosion-resistant stainless steels and other alloys for construction, appliances, and aerospace. It’s key in nickel-based superalloys for turbines and engines, electroplating, and catalysts. Nickel compounds are used in rechargeable batteries (Ni-Cd, NiMH and many lithium-ion cathodes), coins, magnets, and some ceramics and pigments. It also appears in medical devices.

A nickel is worth five cents. In U.S. coinage, the coin called a “nickel” has a face value of $0.05; a dime is the ten-cent coin worth $0.10. Nickels are larger than dimes despite being worth half as much. Both are legal tender in the United States and commonly used in everyday transactions.

As of mid‑2024, refined elemental nickel typically cost roughly $15–$35 per kilogram on global markets, with battery‑grade or specialty nickel fetching higher premiums and scrap or bulk lots selling cheaper. Prices fluctuate daily due to supply, demand and geopolitical factors. For an exact current price for one kilogram, consult live commodity quotes or contact metal suppliers.

Nickel can be harmful in certain situations. Skin contact commonly causes allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized people. Long‑term inhalation of some inorganic nickel compounds (typically in occupational settings) is linked to respiratory cancers. For the general population, low dietary and environmental exposure is usually not harmful. If you're allergic or exposed at work, minimize contact and follow safety guidance.

The biggest use of nickel is in the production of stainless steel and other corrosion-resistant alloys. Nickel adds strength, ductility and corrosion resistance, making it essential for construction, appliances, industrial equipment and kitchenware. A substantial portion also goes into rechargeable batteries, plating, coins and specialty alloys for aerospace and chemical processing, but stainless steel remains the dominant single application.

In trace amounts, nickel may participate in certain enzymatic reactions and help iron metabolism, growth, wound healing and bone development. Some evidence suggests it can influence hormone and lipid regulation. However, clear essentiality in humans isn’t established, deficiency is rare, and supplementation is generally unnecessary—excess nickel can be toxic or cause allergic reactions, so use only under medical advice.