Author: Scott Bredemann | Updated: 02/12/2025
Metals like steel and aluminum get most of the attention in manufacturing, but metalloids aka “semimetals”—a small group of elements that sit between metals and non-metals on the periodic table—play just as critical a role. These elements, including silicon, boron, arsenic, antimony, tellurium, and germanium, have a unique mix of metallic and non-metallic properties, making them indispensable in electronics, aerospace, glassmaking, and high-performance alloys.
Metalloids are known for their semi-conductive nature, heat resistance, and structural reinforcement capabilities. Without them, we wouldn’t have microchips, fiber optic networks, solar panels, or even heat-resistant glass used in laboratories and cookware. They help strengthen metals, improve the efficiency of electrical components, and even enhance flame retardant materials used in industrial safety.
Properties and Uses
| Element (Symbol, Atomic #) | Properties | Uses in Manufacturing |
| Boron (B, 5) | Hard, brittle, high melting point, good neutron absorber | Used in borosilicate glass, aerospace alloys, and as a semiconductor dopant |
| Silicon (Si, 14) | Semiconductor, high thermal stability, abundant in Earth’s crust | Essential in semiconductors, solar panels, and microelectronics |
| Germanium (Ge, 32) | Semiconductor, brittle, good infrared transmission | Used in fiber optics, infrared optics, and semiconductor applications |
| Arsenic (As, 33) | Toxic, brittle, semiconductor, used in alloys | Used in gallium arsenide semiconductors, lead alloys, and pesticides |
| Antimony (Sb, 51) | Brittle, increases hardness in alloys, low thermal conductivity | Used in flame retardants, lead-acid batteries, and hardening alloys |
| Tellurium (Te, 52) | Brittle, improves machinability, enhances thermoelectric properties | Enhances steel machinability, used in thermoelectric devices and solar panels |
Physical Properties and Thresholds
| Metalloid (Symbol, Atomic #) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | Electrical Conductivity (S/m) |
| Boron (B, 5) | ~500 MPa (varies by form) | 27 W/m·K | ~10⁻⁶ S/m (poor conductor) |
| Silicon (Si, 14) | ~170 MPa | 149 W/m·K | ~10⁻³ S/m (semiconductor) |
| Germanium (Ge, 32) | ~100 MPa | 60 W/m·K | ~2.17 S/m (semiconductor) |
| Arsenic (As, 33) | Brittle, low tensile strength | 50 W/m·K | ~3.3 × 10⁵ S/m |
| Antimony (Sb, 51) | Brittle, low tensile strength | 24 W/m·K | ~2.5 × 10⁵ S/m |
| Tellurium (Te, 52) | Brittle, low tensile strength | 1.97 W/m·K | ~1 × 10⁴ S/m |
Metalloids vs. Metals, and Non-Metals
How do they stack up versus each other – here’s how they compare:
- Metalloids have a mix of metallic and non-metallic traits, making them semiconductors—materials that conduct electricity under certain conditions. This is why silicon is used in computer chips and microprocessors, forming the foundation of the tech industry.
- Metals are strong, malleable, and excellent conductors of heat and electricity, which is why they’re used in everything from buildings to wiring. Copper, for example, is the go-to material for electrical wiring and circuit boards because of its high conductivity.
- Non-Metals don’t conduct electricity well and tend to be brittle when solid, but they play crucial roles in chemical reactions and biological systems. Oxygen, for instance, is essential for burning fuel in engines and keeping living things alive.
Metalloids bridge the gap between metals and non-metals, making them invaluable in electronics, manufacturing, and specialized materials.
Conclusion
Metalloids play a vital role in modern manufacturing, from semiconductors to high-performance alloys. If you're looking for precision-engineered components that leverage the unique properties of these materials, MISUMI USA has you covered. Explore our vast selection of custom and standard parts, and take advantage of our flexible manufacturing solutions to meet your exact specifications. Get started today! Visit MISUMI USA to browse our products or contact our experts to discuss how we can support your next project.