CAS 12070-12-1: Tungsten carbide (WC)

Tungsten carbide is a solid, inorganic compound with the chemical formula WC. It is a hard material that has a high melting point and low vapor pressure. Tungsten carbide can be used for various applications such as blades for cutting tools, abrasives, wear-resistant parts, and medical implants. Tungsten carbide has been shown to have significant cytotoxicity in cells and there are toxicological studies that show its effects on fetal bovine cells. It is also shown to have high resistance to oxidation and corrosion. In addition, tungsten carbide is able to convert infrared radiation into heat energy by means of laser ablation. This process can be used to generate heat for welding or cutting metals or ceramics or as an alternative treatment for cancerous tumors.

Sintered tungsten carbide cutting tools are very abrasion resistant. Tungsten carbide is often used in armor-piercing ammunition. Tungsten carbide is also an effective neutron reflector. Hard carbides, especially tungsten carbide, are used by athletes for balance. Tungsten carbide is also used for making surgical instruments This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.

Tungsten carbide (99.5%-W)

Tungsten carbide is extensively used as a cutting tool for machining and in armor-piercing ammunition. It is also used in farriery, the shoeing of horses as well as to improve traction on slippery surfaces like roads or ice. It finds application in nuclear reactors as an effective neutron reflector. It is also used for making surgical instruments meant for open surgery such as scissors, forceps, hemostats, blade-handles and in laparoscopic surgery instruments such as graspers, cutter, needle holder and cautery. Further, it also used to make the rotating ball in the tips of ballpoint pens, bridal jewelry, and gauge blocks, which is useful for producing precision lengths in dimensional metrology. This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.