What is Niobium?

Brazil is currently the world's largest producer

Discovered in 1801 by Charles Hatchett and initially named columbium, it was later renamed after Greek mythology (Niobe). Brazil is currently the world's largest producer, accounting for over 90% of the global supply, largely due to its extensive reserves located mainly in Araxá (MG) and Catalão (GO). Pyrochlore is the primary mineral containing niobium, granting Brazil a strategic global leadership position in its production and export.