Recent content by ras

Now what would this be for the same human who (unwisely) stepped out of his space capsule unprepared on the surface of Venus?

Stainless steel is composed almost entirely of iron and chromium. Chromium doesn't readily oxidize in air so, realistically, the only materials you would be getting from the pot itself would be a few micrograms of iron rust. Your body will put it to good use, don't worry ;-)

The problem with bismuth as jewelry is not its toxicity (as noted already is very low) but rather practical. It shatters pretty easily. And if you're wearing a bismuth crystal, which is the most likely form to be worn as jewelry, the colorful oxide coat will rub off pretty soon. And don't worry...

I thought I'd share a photo of pure iridium polished to a mirror finish. I don't know the process but clearly it's possible. If I had to guess, it was done with the aid of a flat lapping machine.