Capillaries are classified into various types based on their design, application and materials. The following are two common types of capillary tubes:

1. Glass capillary

• Material: These tubes are made of glass and are commonly used in laboratory settings.
• Applications: Commonly used in chromatography, micro-sampling, and as components of various scientific instruments. They are valued for their precision and ability to handle small amounts of liquid.

2. Metal Capillary

• Material: Made of metals such as stainless steel, tantalum or other alloys.
• Applications: Used in a variety of industrial applications including fluid transfer, gas sampling and medical equipment. Metal capillary tubing is preferred for its strength, durability, and resistance to high temperatures and corrosive environments.

These two types of capillary tubes serve different purposes and are selected based on the specific requirements of the application.

1. Unique Properties

• Corrosion Resistance: Tantalum is highly resistant to corrosion, even in harsh environments, making it ideal for chemical processing and medical device applications.
• High Melting Point: Tantalum has a melting point of approximately 3,017 °C (5,463 °F) and can withstand extreme temperatures, which is critical for aerospace and high-performance applications.
• Ductility and Malleability: Tantalum is malleable and can be easily formed into thin wires, sheets, or complex shapes without breaking.

2. Electronics Industry Demand

• Tantalum is widely used in the electronics industry, particularly in the production of capacitors for cell phones, computers and other electronic devices. As consumer electronics grows, demand for high-performance capacitors has increased significantly, driving up the value of tantalum.

3. Biocompatibility

• Tantalum is biocompatible, making it suitable for use in medical implants and devices. Its ability to combine well with human tissue without causing adverse reactions increases its value in the medical field.

4. Limited supply

• Tantalum is a rare element whose extraction is often associated with complex mining processes. The limited resources of high-quality tantalum result in its high market value.

5. Strategic Metal

• Tantalum is classified as a strategic metal due to its importance in various high-tech applications. This classification could increase investment and interest in tantalum supplies, further increasing its value.

6. Ethical Procurement Issues

• The sourcing of tantalum, particularly from conflict-affected areas, raises ethical issues. Efforts to ensure responsible sourcing may affect the market dynamics and value of tantalum.

In summary, tantalum’s unique properties, high demand from electronic and medical applications, limited supply, and strategic importance contribute to its high market value.