Tin (Sn) and lead are both members of the group 14 element family, and each offers a range of properties. These include a close-packed face-centred cubic structure, high density, and excellent oxidation resistance.

Tin has the lowest boiling point of all Group 14 elements, and it is resistant to corrosion by both water and acids and alkalis. Because of this, tin is widely used in a variety of applications.

In addition, it is a good conductor of electricity. It is also highly ductile, making it useful for stamping.

Some of the most common uses for tin are in tinplate for food canning and in solders made from tin-lead, tin-antimony, and tin-silver alloys. It is also an important base metal in the chemical industry and a component of antifouling agents for marine hulls.

When combined with lead, tin provides a low melting point for the alloy, improving its wetting characteristics and ease of casting. It also improves abrasion and oxidation resistance.

Although tin-lead has been replaced by lead-free solders, there are still some situations in which tin-lead is necessary, such as in electronics and automotive applications. Fortunately, there are alternatives to tin-lead in the form of lead-free alloys.

American Elements stocks tin in a wide range of forms, including bar, ingot, ribbon, wire, shot, sheet and foil. We produce to many standard and custom specifications, as well as high purity and ultra high purity grades.