Iodine

It is used in the production of X-ray contrast media (22%). Iodine’s high atomic number and density make it ideally suited for this application, as its presence in the body can help to increase contrast between tissues, organs, and blood vessels with similar X-ray densities.

Iodine based biocides are often used in paints as an in-can preservative as well as to prevent mold growth after application.

Another application driving the demand for iodine is in polarizing film in liquid crystal display (LCD) screens, where iodine is incorporated as polyiodide (I3- or I5-).

Iodine is widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic, frequently in a solution of alcohol and water containing potassium iodide.