- The main use of palladium is in the auto industry for the making of catalytic converters. It is used as a catalyst to break down hazardous hydrocarbons that the normal combustion process does not burn. Cars fitted with a catalytic converter are able to turn unburned fuel vapor into water and CO2 by passing the gases through a honeycombed filter that is coated with palladium or other suitable precious metals. Palladium is used for this purpose mainly in gas-powered vehicles; diesel-powered engines run at a lower temperature.
- The next most common use for palladium is in the electronics industry where it is used in many types of electrical devices in small amounts. Palladium is often used to create conductive circuit pathways and is favored over more expensive metals such as gold because it is more effective in lower quantities. It also was used for a time in making capacitors. It was replaced in this function, however, by nickel, which is a much cheaper alternative.
- The use of palladium in dentistry as an alternative to gold or platinum is relatively recent, beginning in the early 1980's. Its use in this field is market-dependent; when gold and platinum prices are high, palladium is the metal of choice; when palladium is more expensive, gold and platinum are used. Palladium is used in combination with gold, silver, copper or zinc to make alloys to form crowns, bridges and dental inlays. Palladium is used in these processes for its strength. Mixed with other metals, palladium becomes more malleable.
- Palladium has several of the properties that gold, silver and platinum possess, making it an oftentimes less-expensive alternative in jewelry making. It is lightweight, does not tarnish readily and is very strong. It is suitable for making dainty but strong necklaces that can support heavier gems. It is also used in electroplated jewelry such as watches. In terms of value it is more precious than silver; it is lighter than but equal in strength to platinum.
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