The platinum group metals (PGMs) are six precious metals: platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), iridium (Ir), osmium (Os), rhodium (Rh) and ruthenium (Ru). They share similar physical and chemical characteristics — notably catalytic activity, high melting points and resistance to corrosion — and can occur together, in varying proportions, in the same geological deposits. They are among the rarest metals in the Earth’s crust.
What are they used for?
Those characteristics give the PGMs a wide range of industrial applications. The largest is autocatalysts, where PGMs convert harmful exhaust emissions into less harmful compounds, contributing to improved air quality. PGMs are also used in jewellery, electronics, chemical and petroleum refining, and in hydrogen production, purification and fuel cells.
Where they come from
Global PGM supply is concentrated in a small number of countries, principally South Africa, Russia and Zimbabwe.
All platinum group elements are on Australia’s Critical Minerals List.
PGMs at Panton
The Panton PGM Project is one of a small number of primary PGM projects in Australia. The Mineral Resource reports platinum, palladium and gold — together the PGM 3E sum — together with nickel and, within the Reef, chromite. Platinum is the primary value driver.
Rhodium, iridium and osmium are not included in the Mineral Resource due to a paucity of assay data, although flotation test work has demonstrated recovery of these metals.