Why choose germanium

Ａ：Germanium [from Germany], semimetallic chemical element; symbol Ge; at. no. 32; at. wt. 72.59; m.p. 937.4°C; b.p. 2,830°C; sp. gr. 5.323 at 25°C; valence +2 or +4. Pure germanium is a lustrous, gray-white, brittle metalloid with a diamondlike crystalline structure. It is similar in chemical and physical properties to silicon, below which it appears in group IVa of the periodic table. Germanium is very important as a semiconductor.

Germanium oxide is added to glass to increase the index of refraction; such glass is used in wide-angle lenses. Since the oxide is transparent to infrared radiation, it has found use in optical instruments. Germanium tetrachloride is a liquid that boils at 84°C; it is an intermediate in the production of pure germanium. Other halides are known. Germane (germanium tetrahydride) is a gas that decomposes at about 300°C to hydrogen and germanium; it is sometimes used in the production of semiconductor devices. A sulfide and numerous organo-germanium compounds are known. Germanium occurs in a few minerals, e.g., argyrodite (with silver and sulfur), zinc blende (with zinc and sulfur), and tantalite (with iron, manganese, and columbium).


The chief ore of germanium is germanite, which contains copper, sulfur, about 7% germanium, and 20 other elements. Germanium is produced as a byproduct of the refining of other metals; there is considerable recovery from flue dusts and from ashes of certain coals with high germanium content. The element was called ekasilicon by D. I. Mendeleev, who predicted its properties with striking accuracy from its position in his periodic table. It was first isolated from argyrodite in 1886 by Clemens Winkler, a German chemist, who gave it the name germanium.

Dr. Asai found that Ge-Oxy 132 occurs in high concentrations in medicinal plants, and is therefore one of the main active principles responsible for the therapeutic action of many age old, natural remedies. He did not regard is as a drug. He stated, "I would rather call it a health-giving substance - it restores health to those afflicted with disease and sustains health in those who are healthy.... Where body cells lack oxygen, indispensable to life, a gradual decline in function is inevitable and the fire of life will reduce until it is extinguished" *.

Why choose Stainless steel

Ａ：Stainless Steel is essentially a low carbon steel to which chromium has been added. It is this addition of chromium, in amounts greater than 12%, that gives the steel its unique 'stainless', corrosion resisting properties.
The chromium content of the steel allows the formation of a tough, adherent, invisible, corrosion resisting chromium oxide film on the steel surface. If damaged mechanically or chemically this film is self healing, provided that oxygen, even in very small amounts, is present. The corrosion resistance, as well as other useful properties of the steel is enhanced by increased chromium content and the addition of other elements such as molybdenum, nickel and nitrogen.

Stainless Steel's healing characteristics

Benefits of Stainless Steel

Long Term Value

When the total life cycle costs are considered, stainless steel is often the least expensive option

Low Maintenance Costs

Stainless Steel normally only requires a periodic wash using a dilute solution of household detergent and water. Surfaces should be washed with a soft sponge and water.

Ease of Fabrication

Modern steel manipulation techniques mean that stainless steels can be cut, welded, formed and fabricated as readily as traditional steels and other materials.

Corrosion Resistance

Lower alloy grades resist corrosion in normal atmospheric and potable water environments, while the more highly alloyed grades can resist corrosion in many acids and alkaline solutions, and some chloride bearing environments, properties which are widely in process plants.

Strength

The mechanical properties of stainless steels allow thinner sections to be used than with other materials, thus reducing weight without compromising strength. Austenitic grades work harden with cold working and duplex steels allow for reduced thicknesses over traditional grades. Substantial cost savings therefore result as well as increased competitiveness with alternative materials.

Hygiene

Internationally recognised as by far the most hygienic surface for the preparation of foods. The unique surface of stainless steel has no pores or cracks to habour dirt, grime or bacteria. This cleansability far exceeds other surfaces makes it the first choice for strict hygienic conditions, such as hospitals, commercial kitchens, abattoirs and other food and beverage processing plants.

Aesthetic Appearance