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Nickel
Nickel is used primarily for the alloys it forms with other metals. For example, it is the primary ingredient added to iron to make stainless steel. Copper-nickel piping is particularly corrosion-resistant, and it is a key component of minting coins.
Zinc
Zinc is the fourth most commonly used metal after iron, aluminium and copper. It's often used in the production of steel to prevent rust or corrosion. Its other uses include die casting in the automotive industry, in anodes in batteries and in paints.
Lead
Lead is a soft, heavy and toxic metal used in construction, lead-acid batteries (car batteries), ammunition, shielding against radiation, solder, boat ballasts and as a part in the production of metal alloys.
Potash
Potash, an impure form of potassium carbonate, is used in the manufacture of glass, soap and fertilisers. Potash is one of the world's three principal fertiliser minerals and Rio Tinto has considerable past experience of potash mining, primarily in North America. Today, there is a steadily growing market for potash, which Rio Tinto is in a good position to exploit.
For more information on our other products, see our corporate fact sheets.