Platinum, a new tool to combat the Covid-19 pandemic

Platinum, a new tool to combat the Covid-19 pandemic

The role of platinum in medicine is highly relevant, with applications in devices such as pacemakers, filaments to dissolve aneurysms or anticancer drugs such as Cisplatin. The metal also plays a vital role in some devices used in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Platinum is the material in the electrodes of devices that analyze the presence of gases in the blood. Compared to other materials, it offers a rapid reaction and reduces the margin of error.Platinum supply constraints halted a decline.

Instruments that measure the composition of gases in the blood constitute a vital diagnostic tool for professionals who treat the virus. These tools help to analyze, diagnose, and monitor patients with respiratory irregularities.

Its use is widespread in the healthcare field, from emergency medicine and intensive care to diagnostic units or laboratories.

Platinum is also in use in other areas related to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, such as the chemical industry. Catalysts based on this metal play an essential role in the elaboration of polypropylene and silicones for medical use.

In the medicinal field, platinum is also a vital element in the production of the active ingredients of many medications. Among them are several antibiotics used in the treatment of Covid-19. The ingredients are the biologically active components of pharmaceutical products.

Apart from the medical industry, there are many other applications of platinum group metals that are essential for fighting the pandemic. Among them are electro chlorination systems used to disinfect surfaces, buildings, and public areas, as part of efforts to control the spread of the virus.

Platinum group metals, such as ruthenium and iridium, are used as catalysts in chlorine production systems.

Platinum as a fundamental metal for the medical industry

In addition to all these applications designed to combat the spread of coronavirus, platinum has proven to be an indispensable raw material in the medical industry.

For decades, platinum has enabled the development of proven treatments for cardiovascular disease or cancer. The metal remains at the forefront of medical innovation.

For example, pacemakers and stents used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases contain components made of platinum. The metal possesses qualities, such as its high electrical conductivity and biocompatibility. It does not cause allergic reactions, so the body tolerates its presence.

People also use it in the treatment of strokes and aneurysms. Devices made from thin platinum filaments are necessary to isolate blood clots. They are highly visible on X-rays due to the opacity of platinum from these radiations. It allows them to be easily detectable, making it easier for surgeons to remove them.

Platinum has also been part of a treatment for cancer for the past 40 years. The metal is essential in the production of Cisplatin. The latter is a chemotherapy drug that has revolutionized the treatment of the disease and is of enormous importance today.

Other platinum applications in the medical industry include cochlear implants. They are the most advanced technology to combat deafness. The metal is also in neuromodulation devices that treat various illnesses such as epilepsy and strokes, migraine, chronic pain, and Parkinson’s disease.