In this episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast I explore the scientific and technological uses of platinum group metals (PGMs) with Marge Ryan of UK-based Johnson Matthey.
Ryan is a chemical engineer with more than 25 years experience working with the metals. Johnson Matthey was founded in 1817 as an assayer and refiner of precious metals and has since become a leading supplier and recycler of PGMs. These are platinum, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium and iridium – which are all relatively rare and expensive materials.
Ryan explains how the catalytic properties of these metals play important roles in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and in catalytic converters, which reduce harmful vehicle emissions. She also talks about how the metals’ high melting points and corrosion resistance make some PGMs useful in jet engines and glass production.
We explore new and innovative uses for PGMs, including plasmonics, quantum materials and spintronics. Ryan explains that the move away from internal combustions engines will free up some platinum group metals for other uses. To develop new applications, Johnson Matthey and its mining partners have created the PGM Award Scheme, which supplies materials free of charge to selected researchers.
Ryan also highlights career opportunities for physicists in the PGM sector – including fundamental materials science, R&D and commercial roles.
- Ryan can be contacted via a link at the bottom of this page.
