Investing in Tantalum

Tantalum is a highly corrosion-resistant transition metal that occurs in the mineral tantalite. The major use for tantalum is in electron components such as capacitors and high-end resistors. It is also used to proudce superalloys with high melting points, strength, and good ductility for jet engines, nuclear reactors, and other advanced industries. Its melting point is only lower than tungsten, rhenium and carbon.

Cabot Corporation (NYSE: CBT) - http://www.cabot-corp.com/ - Purchased tantalum production capabilities from Sons of Gwalia, formerly the largets tantalum producer.

HC Starck - http://www.hcstarck.com/ - This division of Bayer AG (NYSE: BAY) also purchased tantalum production capabilities from Sons of Gwalia.

KEMET Corporation - http://www.kemet.com/ - Their tantalum division manufactures tantalum capacitors.

AVX Corporation - http://www.avxcorp.com/ - Their passive components segments includes tantalum capacitors.

Gippsland - http://www.gippslandltd.com.au/