Wolframite

Stick diagram of wolframite single crystal front view

Extraction of Tungsten from Wolframite Ore

Tungstic acid

Wolframite is a principal ore of tungsten, a metal that is known for its high strength and melting point, making it a critical material for a wide range of industrial applications. The name "wolframite" is derived from "Wolfram," which is the name used in German for tungsten. This mineral is a solid solution series between the end members ferberite (FeWO4) and hübnerite (MnWO4), meaning its chemical composition can vary between iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) tungstate depending on the specific characteristics of the mineral sample.

Properties and Characteristics

Wolframite is characterized by its sub-metallic luster and high density, which makes it easily distinguishable from other minerals. It typically presents a dark color, ranging from brown to black, and has a reddish hue when viewed under transmitted light. The mineral has a hardness of about 4-4.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it relatively hard but still susceptible to scratching by materials of a higher hardness.

Occurrence

Wolframite is found in quartz veins and pegmatites associated with granitic intrusives. Associated minerals include quartz, cassiterite, scheelite, and various sulfides. It is mined in several countries, with major deposits found in China, Russia, Portugal, South Korea, and Bolivia. The extraction of tungsten from wolframite involves crushing and grinding the ore, followed by a process of gravity concentration and flotation to remove impurities.

Applications

The primary use of tungsten extracted from wolframite is in the production of hard materials made from tungsten carbide, which are used in cutting tools, mining machinery, and drilling equipment due to their exceptional hardness and resistance to wear and heat. Tungsten is also used in the manufacture of alloys, including steel, to improve their strength and resistance to high temperatures. Additionally, tungsten finds applications in the electronics industry, particularly in the production of light bulb filaments and in the aerospace industry for its high-density properties, making it suitable for use as counterweights and balance weights.

Environmental and Health Concerns

The mining and processing of wolframite can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and the use of hazardous chemicals. There are also health risks associated with exposure to tungsten, including respiratory problems from inhaling tungsten dust during the processing of the ore. Efforts are being made to develop more sustainable and less harmful methods of extracting tungsten from wolframite.

See Also

• Tungsten
• Mineral
• Ore
• Mining

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