Vanadium has atomic number 23 and is represented by the symbol V on the periodic table. It is a soft, silvery gray ductile metal, which was first discovered in 1801.
It displays good resistance to corrosion and is stable against reaction with alkali's, sulfuric and hydrolchloric acids. A small amount of Vanadium increases the strength of steel considerably, hence its application in axles, crankshafts, gears and tools - think Gedore - as well as surgical instruments.
Vanadium also stabilises the beta form of Titanium, and increases the strength and temperature stability of Titanium. Vanadium is also often alloyed with Aluminium and Titanium for use in jet engines and high speed airframes.
In stainless steel, Vanadium forms incredibly hard carbides, resulting in a knife edge that has extremely high resistance to wear, even when added in small percentages, e.g. N690 - 0.1%, S30V - 4%, S90V - 9%.
These carbides form what can be likened to micro serrations on the blade edge, resulting in a wicked cutting edge that goes on and on cutting. Of course, the one drawback to Vanadium, is that the more you add to the stainless, the more difficult it becomes to work with.
Precautions:
All Vanadium compounds should be considered toxic, with adequate levels of exposure resulting in sickness and death. Inhalation usually results in respiratory problems, but have also been reported as affecting blood parameters, liver and various other organs.
There is also debate as to whether it is carcinogenic.
