Diamagnetic Ceramics

Bismuth is the most diamagnetic of all metals and has low thermal conductivity. Since bismuth expands upon solidification, it is used to make castings for objects subjected to high temperatures. It is used as a replacement for lead in solders, shot for hunting, fishing sinkers, ceramic glazes, and brasses for plumbing applications. It is also used as a carrier for (an isotope of uranium) fuel in atomic reactors. Ionic compounds of bismuth are used in cosmetics and medicine. 

Most ceramics are diamagnetic. The reason is that all the electrons are paired during bond formation and as a result the net magnetic moment due to electron spin is zero. Table 33.4 lists x for several diamagnetic materials. Cu, Au, and Ag are diamagnetic even though their atoms have unpaired valence electrons. When the atoms combine to form the metal the valence electrons are shared by the crystal as a whole (to form the electron gas) and, on average, there will be as many electrons with Ms = +1/2 as with Ws = -1/2. 

Most diamagnetic ceramics are of no commercial significance and of little scientific interest, at least not for... 

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