Hafnium Powder / Hf Powder (Hf, 99.9%, APS<40 um, Hexagonal)

Hafnium Powder / Hf Powder

Hafnium is a shiny, silvery, and ductile metal. It resists corrosion due to the formation of a strong impermeable oxide film on its surface. The metal is not affected by alkalis and acids, with the exception of hydrofluoric acid. Hafnium is difficult to separate from its Group 4 partner, zirconium because the two elements have atoms of the same size.

Hafnium and its alloys are used for control rods in nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines because hafnium is excellent for absorbing neutrons, has a very high melting point, and is resistant to corrosion. It is used in alloys for high temperatures and in ceramics, as some of its compounds are very refractory: they do not melt except at the most extreme temperatures.

Metallic hafnium is usually not a problem, but all hafnium compounds should be considered toxic, although initial evidence seems to indicate the danger is limited. Metal dust is a fire and explosion hazard. Metallic hafnium has no known toxicity. The metal is completely insoluble in water, saline solutions, or body chemicals. Exposure to hafnium can occur by inhalation, ingestion, eye contact, or skin contact. Excessive exposure to hafnium and its compounds can cause mild irritation to the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.