One of the most basic components of biological life, proteins form the core DNA structure and are involved in almost every process that sustains a living being. Harvested at the microscopic level, proteins can be put to use in everything from medical genetics to nanite technology.

Very dense metals are often called reactive metals, as their ability to conduct electrical currents and absorb heat is unparalleled. Rarely found in a natural solid state, they are instead usually assembled on an atomic level from particulate matter found in other forms.

As one of the most common elements in the universe, it's no surprise that silicon has found its way into almost every aspect of manufacturing, resulting in a steady price and perpetual mining operations on most solid planets.

Derived from heavy metals, toxic metals are those that have no biological function and are in fact poisonous to most living creatures.