Tamil Nadu’s Resolution against Tungsten (or Wolfram) Mining

About Tungsten (or Wolfram)

• Symbol: W
• Atomic Number: 74
• Appearance: A shiny, silvery-white metal.
• Ores: Scheelite and Wolframite.
• Unique Properties:
  • High Melting Point: Highest melting point of all metals at 3,422°C (6,192°F).
  • High Density: Density of 3 g/cm³, comparable to gold.
  • Hardness: Very hard, especially when alloyed with other metals (measured as 5 on the Mohs scale).
  • Excellent Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: High resistance to thermal expansion.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Resistant to oxidation and most acids.
  • High Tensile Strength: Retains strength at high temperatures.
  • Low Vapor Pressure: Does not vaporize easily, even at high temperatures.

Real-world Applications of Tungsten

• Electronics and Electrical Industry:
  • Filaments in incandescent and halogen bulbs due to its high melting point.
  • Electrodes in gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) due to its high conductivity.
  • Semiconductors and X-ray tubes because of its ability to withstand heat.
• Aerospace and Defense:
  • Used in high-speed aircraft, missiles, and rocket engine nozzles for its heat resistance.
  • Armor-piercing projectiles and radiation shielding due to its high density.
• Manufacturing and Machining: Tungsten carbide (WC), an incredibly hard compound, is used in:
  • Cutting tools, drills, and milling instruments.
  • Mining tools, wear-resistant parts, and abrasives.
• Medical Sector:
  • Radiation shielding in medical imaging (X-rays, CT scans).
  • Medical electrodes in surgical instruments.
• Jewelry: Tungsten carbide rings and accessories due to their scratch resistance and durability.
• Automotive:
  • High-performance engines and braking systems.
  • Counterweights for balancing vehicles.
• Chemical Industry: Catalysts in chemical reactions and petroleum refining.
• Sports and Recreation: Fishing weights, darts, and golf club heads due to its density and durability.

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