Oxidation Of Tungsten

The report presents a detailed review of available information on the oxidation of W and its alloys. W is relatively inert below 700 C. As the temperature is increased above this level, however, oxidation becomes progressively more rapid, reaching catastrophic rates at temperatures around 1200 C and above. Various theories for the mechanism and rates of W oxidation at different temperatures are reviewed, and the effect of pressure and water vapor on the stability of W oxides is discussed in detail. The elevatedtemperature reactions of W with other materials, such as refractory oxides, and with gases other than oxygen also are covered. Information on the protection of W by alloying and coating is included. (Author).