ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a detailed discussion on the occurrence and production, uses, chemical and physical properties, exposure and exposure limits, toxicokinetics, and effects of rhodium in humans. The platinum-group metals are recovered from placer deposits of two intergrown alloys of the metals and from sulfide-ore bodies. Most of the new platinum-group metal recovery in the United States is from copper and gold refining. Rhodium is used as a catalyst, in electrical contacts, electroplating of jewelry and instruments, and in glass. Rh-Pt alloys are used for crucibles, spinnerets, resistance furnace windings, and thermocouples. The chemistry of rhodium resembles that of iridium. Both form protective oxide coatings that decompose at high temperatures, but the rhodium oxide dissociation is much slower. The effects of rhodium in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity.
