Niobium

Pure niobium is a shiny, silvery ductile metal belonging to Group 5B of the transition elements. Due to a protective layer of oxide film coating its surface, niobium resists corrosion.

Niobium is popular in "body art" products, such as navel rings, since it develops a bluish tinge upon long exposure to air at room temperature. Stainless steel may contain niobium, which serves to improve the steel's mechanical properties. Various niobium compounds have superconducting properties with high electrical resistance making them ideal for specialized applications.

On a daily basis, one would rarely encounter niobium compounds. Unless otherwise indicated, compounds of this element should be regarded as highly toxic.