Introduction to Tungsten Needles
From a tank to a needle, tungsten is a major ally. In tanks, tungsten is added to steel to add to durability, in needles, they are used because they don’t bend easily. Tungsten is a metal that comes straight from the Earth. It’s dug up, just like gold or diamonds, but it’s even more valuable in certain ways. What makes it so special? Let’s discover more.
From Tungsten Ore to Needle
To make tungsten needles, we need tungsten. Miners dig up minerals like wolframite (from wolfram, the Latin name for tungsten) and scheelite, which are tungsten containing rocks called tungsten ores. This isn’t shiny like gold or as hard as diamonds. It’s a plain-looking rock, but hidden inside is the secret ingredient for our incredible needle.
This rock is then taken to a special factory where it’s heated up to an incredibly hot temperature. This heat is so intense that it would be like standing in the middle of a volcano.
This extreme heat breaks down the rock and leaves us with pure tungsten. This is then molded and shaped into the familiar form of a needle. It’s a long journey from rock to needle, but the end product is truly extraordinary.
Properties of Tungsten Needles
You might be wondering why tungsten is chosen for needles. It all comes down to its amazing properties . Tungsten is super tough. If you tried to bend or break a tungsten needle, you’d have a very hard time.
Another fantastic thing about tungsten is it’s resistant to heat. This means it won’t melt or deform easily when exposed to high temperatures. This is especially important for needles that might be used in a scientific or medical environment, where they could be exposed to intense heat.
Finally, tungsten needles are resistant to corrosion . This means that they won’t rust or break down when they get wet or come into contact with certain chemicals.
Countless Uses of Tungsten Needles
You’re probably picturing a sewing needle right now, but tungsten needles have many more uses than just stitching. Scientists use them in their laboratories for delicate tasks, like moving tiny objects under a microscope . Doctors use them to help perform surgeries or treatments. They’re also used in technology to create small and precise parts.
The Future: Exciting Possibilities for Tungsten Needles
With all these fantastic properties and uses, the possibilities for tungsten needles are practically endless. Scientists are constantly coming up with new ways to use them, like in electronics or space exploration.
For example, tungsten needles made from a tungsten wire exposed to electric charges in an atmosphere of nitrogen makes the pointiest of sharp points possible. The tip of these needles are the size of a single atom, making these the perfect device in different types of microscopy
Conclusion
Humans have launched themselves into glorious times with the advent of the Bronze and Iron Age. Clearly, the use of metals has always shown us the direction to success. Tungsten might be the next big thing— tungsten needles are just one humble example.
Glossary
Tungsten Ore: The raw, mineral form of tungsten which is usually found deep beneath the Earth’s surface.
Corrosion: The breakdown of a metal due to reaction with water or air.
Properties: The characteristics or qualities of a substance that define its physical and chemical behavior.
Microscope: An instrument used to see objects too small for the naked eye.
