ITRI, formerly the International Tin Research Institute, has been at the forefront of tin technology for more than 75 years pioneering and coordinating key developments such as continuous bronze casting and, more recently, lead-free soldering.

Through extensive networks with industry and research organisations globally ITRI is able to observe and forecast technology trends that represent both threats and opportunities for future tin markets. This knowledge enables tin producers to anticipate future supply scenarios and intervene in priority areas.

Over the last two decades sustainability has dominated the technology agenda for tin.

In the main this has brought opportunities, as tin has been able to replace lead in wine capsules, fishing weights and solders. Lead-free soldering technology has had a very significant impact on tin use and is still a core topic for ITRI. 

ITRI is working to support the tinplate industry in development of technologies that reinforce its excellent sustainability credentials in the highly competitive packaging market.

Sustainability has also driven other innovations in tin including, for example, tin in cement for chromium remediation.

Energy technologies are now beginning to emerge as a new trend likely to provide many opportunities for tin. Tin compounds are highly versatile and ITRI is tracking exciting new tin developments in lithium ion batteries, fuel calls and solar cells for example.

Major themes for ITRI's own technology agenda today are:

• Advanced solder technologies for low cost, reliable electronics
• Sustainable and competitive technologies for tinplate
• Low-cost halogen-free fire retardant technologies
• Tin alloy fuel catalysts for reduction of energy and emissions
• Anti-viral vetinary medicines
• Corrosion inhibiting water treatments for industrial water tanks
• Tin replacements for antimony sulphide in brake pads

ITRI has well equipped laboratories in the UK and technology expertise covering metallurgy, chemistry and electrochemistry.

Going forward, ITRI's technology strategy will build new global research networks to support the needs of the tin industry. This initiative will be focussed in tin producing countries including China, Indonesia and Malaysia.

For more information please contact:

Dr Jeremy Pearce
Technology Team Leader