Germanium
Context: In response to an RTI by The Hindu, the Indian embassy in Beijing stated that germanium, though not a rare earth element, was the only element cited in Indian industry grievances over China’s export restrictions on rare earth elements.
Important Pointers:
► Type: Lustrous, hard metalloid (semi-metal) with a crystal structure similar to diamond.
► Category: Not a Rare Earth Element (REE), but strategically important.
► Physical Properties: Silvery-white, brittle, semiconductor.
Uses of Germanium:
► Used in fiber-optic cables for high-speed data transmission.
► A key component in infrared imaging devices and thermal optics.
► Enhances the performance of weapon systems in harsh conditions.
► Used in solar cells for space and defense due to high heat resistance and efficiency.
► Important in semiconductor electronics.