Antimony is an ancient chemical element that has played a significant role in human history from ancient cosmetics to modern industrial applications. This article explores the properties, uses, market trends, and key figures like Gary Evans, providing a comprehensive understanding of antimony and its global impact.
Properties of Antimony
Antimony is a brittle metalloid that can be found in nature primarily as stibnite. It has a melting point of approximately 630.6 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 1587 degrees Celsius. It is moderately dense at around 6.68 grams per cubic centimeter. Antimony forms oxides and reacts with oxidizing agents, making it useful in various chemical processes.
Uses of Antimony
The largest single use of antimony is in flame retardants, where antimony trioxide is combined with halogenated flame retardants to protect plastics, textiles, and electronics housings.
Alloys and Industrial Applications
Antimony is also alloyed with lead or tin to improve hardness, strength, and durability in applications such as batteries, bullets, bearings, solder, and type metals.
Electronics Applications
In electronics, certain antimony compounds such as indium antimonide and gallium antimonide are used in infrared detectors, diodes, and Hall effect devices.
Glass Ceramics and Pigments
It is also used in glass, ceramics, enamels, and pigments as a fining agent or color stabilizer.
Geographic Distribution and Production
China is the largest producer of antimony, especially from the Xikuangshan Mine in Hunan Province. Other producers include Bolivia, Russia, and Tajikistan. Much of the supply comes as a by-product of other mining operations, including lead and gold mines.
Hazards and Toxicity
Many antimony compounds are toxic. Inhalation or ingestion of antimony compounds can be harmful. Regulatory measures control the handling, disposal, and environmental release of antimony to protect humans and the environment.
Antimony Price and Market Overview
Antimony is a valuable commodity and its prices have fluctuated significantly in recent years. Depending on purity, grade, and location, the price of antimony ingots ranges from approximately 19000 to 25000 USD per metric ton. Antimony trioxide for industrial use has lower prices, but large variations exist. Recent market trends show dramatic surges in antimony prices, driven by supply restrictions from China, rising global demand in electronics, defense, and green technologies, and regulatory constraints.
Price Drivers
Major drivers of antimony prices include supply concentration, with China being the dominant producer, export restrictions, increasing demand, production costs, regulatory challenges, and logistical considerations. Global demand is expected to rise due to its use in electronics, flame retardants, and defense applications. However, substitution pressures and environmental regulations may limit growth in some sectors.
Gary C Evans and United States Antimony Corporation
Gary C Evans is the Chairman and CEO of United States Antimony Corporation (USAC). He has been involved with the company in multiple executive roles including Co-CEO and board member. Evans is known as a serial entrepreneur with a history of leading energy companies to public listings. He is also Chairman of Evergreen Sustainable Enterprises Inc., where he is involved in Bitcoin mining and green energy initiatives.
Education and Career
Gary Evans holds a degree from Southern Methodist University, Cox School of Business. His professional career spans multiple energy and resource companies where he has taken leadership roles and managed corporate growth and public offerings.
Estimated Net Worth and Holdings
Gary Evans is reported to have an estimated net worth of around 22 million USD based on his share holdings in USAC. He owns approximately 2,378,818 shares in the company. The value of these holdings is subject to market price fluctuations and investor evaluations.
Business Activities in Australia
Gary Evans and USAC have been active in Australian markets, expressing interest in acquiring Larvotto Resources (ASX: LRV). USAC made a non-binding indicative offer, which was publicly announced and later rejected by the Larvotto board citing undervaluation. Australian press and ASX filings reported on these developments, as well as USAC plans to expand Montana smelter operations and secure defense supply contracts.
Australian Market Impact
Australian media and mining news outlets have highlighted the strategic importance of antimony supply and the impact of Chinese export restrictions on global prices. The involvement of USAC in Australian business activities demonstrates the company’s expansion strategy and Gary Evans’ leadership in executing international acquisitions.
Conclusion
Antimony is an ancient element with modern industrial significance. It is used extensively in flame retardants, alloys, electronics, glass, ceramics, and pigments. The market for antimony is highly influenced by China, the largest producer, and recent price trends show substantial volatility. Gary Evans is a key figure in the antimony industry as CEO and Chairman of USAC and has a history of leading companies through growth and acquisitions. While personal family details are not publicly available, his professional achievements and strategic business activities, especially in Australia, demonstrate his impact on the industry. Understanding the properties, uses, market trends, and key figures like Gary Evans provides a comprehensive view of the antimony sector and its global significance.
FAQs
What is antimony used for?
Antimony is used in flame retardants, alloys, electronics, glass, ceramics, and pigments. It helps improve safety and performance in various industrial and consumer applications.
Who is Gary C Evans?
Gary C Evans is the Chairman and CEO of United States Antimony Corporation. He is a serial entrepreneur with experience in leading energy and resource companies to public listings.
What is the price of antimony?
The price of antimony ingots ranges from approximately 19000 to 25000 USD per metric ton depending on purity, grade, and location. Prices may fluctuate due to supply, demand, and market conditions.
Where is antimony produced?
China is the largest producer. Other countries include Bolivia, Russia, and Tajikistan. Much of the supply comes from mining operations associated with other metals.
Is antimony toxic?
Yes, many antimony compounds are toxic. Inhalation or ingestion can be harmful. Handling and disposal are regulated to ensure safety.
What is United States Antimony Corporation?
It is a company engaged in mining, processing, and selling antimony and related products. The company is led by Gary C Evans and has international business activities including interest in Australian markets.
Has USAC made acquisitions in Australia?
Yes, USAC expressed interest in acquiring Larvotto Resources (ASX: LRV). However, the offer was rejected by the Larvotto board citing undervaluation. The company continues to explore international expansion opportunities.
What is Gary Evans net worth?
His estimated net worth is around 22 million USD based on his share holdings in United States Antimony Corporation. The value of his holdings may vary with market price changes.
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