Tungsten

Tungsten was discovered in 1783 by the Spanish chemist Juan José de Elhuyar and his brother Fausto Elhuyar. They isolated the element from the mineral wolframite, which led to its recognition. The name 'tungsten' is derived from the Swedish words 'tung sten,' meaning 'heavy stone,' highlighting its considerable density. The metal was first identified in its pure form in the late 19th century. It gained prominence during the 20th century, particularly during World War I and II, as its excellent hardness and high melting point made it suitable for military applications, such as in armor-piercing ammunition. The element continues to be of great importance in modern technology and materials science.

Tungsten is not found in its free metallic form in nature due to its high reactivity. It is primarily obtained from tungsten ores such as wolframite and scheelite. These minerals are mined in several regions around the world, including China, which accounts for a significant portion of global tungsten production. Other prominent sources include Australia, Russia, and Portugal. Tungsten is often extracted through processes like roasting and chemical reduction, after which it can be refined into various forms for industrial use. It is also found in trace amounts in the Earth’s crust, usually associated with other minerals.

Tungsten plays a minimal role in biological systems and is not considered an essential element for any known life forms. However, it does have some biological significance, as it can be found in certain microorganisms that use tungsten-containing enzymes. These enzymes are involved in catalytic processes and contribute to the metabolic pathways of some bacteria. Despite its scarcity in biological systems, the study of tungsten's interactions and potential roles within living organisms continues to be a subject of interest in biochemical research.

Tungsten possesses remarkable physical and chemical properties. It has the highest melting point of all elements, at about 3422 degrees Celsius (6192 degrees Fahrenheit), and a density of approximately 19.25 grams per cubic centimeter, making it exceptionally heavy. The element is silver-gray in color and has a very high tensile strength, which allows it to withstand high temperatures without deformation. Chemically, tungsten is relatively stable and resists oxidation, but it will react with halogens and acids. Its compounds, such as tungsten carbide, are known for their hardness and are widely used in applications requiring durability.

Due to its outstanding properties, tungsten has a wide range of applications in various industries. It is commonly used in the manufacture of hard metals, such as tungsten carbide, which is essential for cutting rods, drill bits, and mining tools. Tungsten is also used in the production of filaments for incandescent light bulbs, as well as in the aerospace industry for components that must withstand high temperatures. Additionally, tungsten’s high density makes it a preferred material for radiation shielding and ballast in aircraft and boats. The electronics industry utilizes tungsten for contacts and interconnections in integrated circuits.

• Tungsten has the highest tensile strength of any pure metal at room temperature.
• The metal is so hard that it is often used in tools that can cut through other metals.
• Pure tungsten is used as a filament in electric light bulbs and is critical in the production of certain types of steel.
• During World War II, tungsten was in such high demand that it was referred to as 'strategic material' by several governments.