Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services


Indium compounds have a broad variety of uses

26 May 2021 Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services

Perhaps the most widely recognised compound of indium is indium-tin oxide (ITO). This ubiquitous compound is a transparent conductive oxide used in almost all flat panel displays and touchscreen devices. While ITO is the most recognised of indium’s compounds, there are several others that provide solutions for a number of applications.

Indium trichloride, or IndiTri, is a versatile compound needed by a number of industries in a wide range of applications, including LEDs, lighting and semiconductor component manufacturing. IndiTri is commonly used as a starting compound for the synthesis of other inorganic and organic indium compounds, such as tri-methyl indium (TMI), the most widely used metal-organic precursor for indium. IndiTri is also used as an additive to alkaline batteries to reduce outgassing and improve operational efficiency of the battery when under electrical load.

The first step to the well-known ITO, indium oxide, or IndiOx, is a compound that can be doped with tin oxide to form ITO sputtering targets for thin-film coating. On its own, IndiOx can be used to suppress gas formation in alkaline batteries, as a colour additive for glass, and as an anti-arcing additive in high-current electrical switches and contacts.

For electroplating applications, indium sulphate, or IndiSul, is commonly used as a compound in chemical synthesis and proprietary plating chemistries to enable electroplating of indium layers onto a variety of substrates. It can also be used as a hardening agent in gold plating baths.

Indium Corporation is a global leader for indium metal and associated technologies.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Why South African manufacturers must rethink device programming
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] As South Africa positions itself as a fast-growing player in global electronics manufacturing, an often overlooked yet critical phase in the production lifecycle is coming into focus: device programming.

Read more...
PCBWay: Your go-to for fast, reliable electronics design solutions
PCBWay Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] While many engineers may know PCBWay for its excellence in PCB manufacturing, its design service is equally impressive.

Read more...
Why South African manufacturers must rethink device programming
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] As South Africa positions itself as a fast-growing player in global electronics manufacturing, an often overlooked yet critical phase in the production lifecycle is coming into focus: device programming.

Read more...
Find high-quality flex and rigid-flex PCBs at PCBWay
PCBWay Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] Flex and rigid-flex PCBs are widely used across various industries due to their unique combination of flexibility, durability, and design versatility. Among the leading providers, PCBWay stands out for its exceptional quality services.

Read more...
The ultimate range for design and repair
RS South Africa Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Whether adapting existing systems or maintaining essential equipment, design and repair play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency and longevity.

Read more...
Next-generation SPI and AOI series
Techmet Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Saki Corporation has launched its next-gen series for SPI and AOI featuring a modular design for enhanced inspection efficiency and automation.

Read more...
Yamaha’s Advanced Safety Package eases factory-safety
Truth Electronic Manufacturing Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Yamaha Robotics SMT Section has extended availability of the Advanced Safety Package, which contains optional features to elevate printer and mounter safety above and beyond mandatory levels.

Read more...
Case Study: Siemens Valor automation solution
ASIC Design Services Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Electronics manufacturer BMK used Siemens Valor to enhance accuracy and speed up bill-of-materials quotations.

Read more...
The factory beat
Electronic Industry Supplies Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Change is the only constant across today’s complex manufacturing landscape. The surge of digital transformation, spearheaded by Industry 4.0, has redefined how factories operate, build, and evolve.

Read more...
Microtronix powers up 2025 with smart meter production for Eskom
Microtronix Manufacturing Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Microtronix has kicked off 2025 with a significant milestone: the production of smart meters for Eskom, designed to assist customers with load reduction initiatives.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved