3TG is an acronym for Tin, Tantalum, Tungsten, and Gold. These four elements are collectively known as "conflict minerals" because they are frequently mined in conditions of armed conflict and human rights abuses, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and adjoining countries. Due to international regulations (such as Section 1502 of the US Dodd-Frank Act and EU Conflict Minerals Regulations), companies worldwide are required to perform due diligence on their supply chains to ensure the sourcing of these materials does not fund armed groups.
Tin: Primarily used as solder on electronic circuit boards.
Tantalum: Used to manufacture capacitors, which store energy in smartphones, laptops, and automotive electronics.
Tungsten: Valued for its high density and melting point; used in wires, electrodes, and automotive parts.
Gold: Used in jewelry, but also as a highly efficient, corrosion-resistant electrical conductor in electronic connectors and wires.