Discovered : by D. Coster and G.C. von Hevesey in 1923 Isolated in Copenhagen, Denmark Origin : The name is derived from 'Hafnia', the Latin word for Copenhagen. Description : A shiny silvery metal that resists corrosion. Its alloys are used to make control rods for nuclear reactors because it will absorb neutrons and has a very high melting point. Image : Based upon the civic coat of arms of Copenhagen.