text: As you probably know, it was mainly used only in high level electronics, especially in the aeronautics industry, until the widespread introduction of the catalytic converter where it is used as the catalyst to reduce smog components in automobile exhaust. This gives it quite an edge over other metals, a widespread application which actually uses up the material. However, its price in relation to gold has far outstripped its relative usage, and I think a lot of speculation is involved considering other possible applications such as fuel cells. I would expect increased demand through automotive applications for at least the next twelve years, by which time we may see some shift to new technology, but still at least level demand.