Sentence:  As a first step toward this goal , arrangements were worked out for comparing the scales now in use through circulation of a group of standard <WSD>platinum</WSD> resistance thermometers for calibration by each national laboratory . 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  a heavy precious metallic element; grey-white and resistant to corroding; occurs in some nickel and copper ores and is also found native in some deposits