Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why is antimony used in bullets and cable coverings?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

A labeled periodic table entry for antimony shows its symbol Sb, atomic number 51, atomic weight 121.76, electron configuration, and name. It is a solid, weakly acidic other metal with a rhombohedral crystal structure at room temperature. — antimony Properties of antimony.

Antimony is used in bullets and cable coverings primarily because it acts as a hardening agent when alloyed with other metals, particularly lead.

Even when added in minor quantities, antimony imparts increased strength and hardness to lead, which is essential for these specific applications. In the context of ammunition and cable sheathing, this alloying process creates a more durable material than pure lead, which is naturally soft.12