Element Osmium (Os), Group 8, Atomic Number 76, d-block, Mass 190.23. Sources, facts, uses, scarcity (SRI), podcasts, alchemical symbols, videos and images. read more
Osmium is the densest naturally occurring element, with a density of 22.59 g/cm 3. Manufacturers use its alloys with platinum, iridium, and other platinum-group metals to make fountain pen nib tipping, electrical contacts, and in other applications that require extreme durability and hardness. read more
Osmium itself also plays a part in some catalysts, and is used for staining specimens in microscopy. None of these is what you might call a bulk application - which may account for why it's estimated that the current annual amount of osmium now produced right around the world weighs less than a large tiger. read more
Uses of osmium Because of its density, osmium is often alloyed with other precious metals to make products such as instrument pivots, phonograph needles, and electrical contacts.When naturally combined with iridium, it is used in fountain pen tips. read more