Properties and Overview of Tungsten

Overview:

Tungsten (W) a metal with the chemical symbol W and atomic number 74, stands out for its unique combination of density, hardness, and refractory nature. This lustrous, silvery-white metal boasts the highest melting point among all metals, at 3,422°C, and a boiling point of 5,555°C. With an exceptionally high density of 19.25 g/cm³, comparable to gold, and remarkable strength at high temperatures, tungsten is a heavyweight in the world of materials science.
Chemically, tungsten is relatively inert, displaying excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is primarily found in oxidation states of +6, +5, and +4, with the +6 state being the most stable and common in its compounds, such as tungsten trioxide (WO₃) and various tungstates. Tungsten has a strong affinity for carbon and forms several important carbides widely used in industrial applications. Tungsten does not react readily with water or air, contributing to its longevity and reliability in harsh environments.
When it comes to safety, it's important to note that tungsten and its compounds are generally considered to have low toxicity. However, caution is advised when handling tungsten dust or powder, as inhalation can lead to lung irritation or other respiratory issues. Prolonged exposure to tungsten compounds in industrial settings may necessitate careful monitoring and appropriate safety measures to avoid chronic health effects, although such cases are rare.

Production:

Tungsten is primarily produced from its ores, such as wolframite ((Fe,Mn)WO₄) and scheelite (CaWO₄). The extraction process involves a series of steps, starting with the crushing of the ore, followed by chemical reactions to produce tungsten trioxide. This oxide is then reduced with hydrogen or carbon to yield pure tungsten metal. Tungsten is often alloyed with other metals, such as nickel, iron, or cobalt, to enhance its properties for specific applications. The production of tungsten is energy-intensive, requiring high temperatures and specialized equipment, which contributes to its cost.

Applications:

Tungsten's applications are broad and varied, owing to its unique properties. It is most famously used in producing filaments for incandescent light bulbs, where its high melting point allows it to operate at high temperatures without melting. The electronics industry uses tungsten to manufacture electrodes, contacts, and heating elements due to its excellent electrical conductivity and thermal stability. Tungsten carbide, a compound of tungsten and carbon, is widely used in cutting tools, drilling equipment, and wear-resistant materials because of its hardness and durability.
In addition, tungsten is used in the aerospace and defense industries, where its high density and strength are critical for applications such as rocket engine nozzles, armor-piercing ammunition, and counterweights in aircraft and missiles. The metal's ability to withstand extreme temperatures and mechanical stress makes it indispensable in these demanding environments. Tungsten is also employed in the medical field, particularly in radiation shielding for diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment and in the manufacture of surgical instruments that require both strength and resistance to sterilization processes.

Summary:

Tungsten extraordinary physical properties, chemical stability, and versatility make it an essential material in modern technology and industry. Despite the challenges associated with its production and processing, tungsten plays a crucial role in a wide range of high-performance applications, from everyday household items to advanced aerospace and defense technologies.

See a comprehensive list of atomic, electrical, mechanical, physical and thermal properties for tungsten below: