Rhenium is silver, has a very high melting point (the third highest after coal and tungsten). Rhenium is very tough, resistant to corrosion, but oxidizes slowly in the air.
Rhenium Applications
Rhenium is used as a component in alloys for turbine blades. Rhenium is an ideal metal for use at very high temperatures, making it suitable for aircraft and rocket engines. Rhenium forms tungsten and molybdenum alloys used as filament lamps for bakeries. It is also used in thermoelectric pairs that can measure temperatures above 2000oC, as well as for electrical contacts and arcs. Rhenium platinum alloy, used in catalysis to produce high-octane hydrocarbons, used in unleaded gasoline. Other applications of rhenium alloys are in X-ray medical devices, as superconductors, in jewelry and elsewhere.
Effects of rhenium on human health
Little is known about the toxicity of rhenium . It can cause eye and skin irritation. Ingestion may cause digestive tract irritation. Inhalation may cause respiratory irritation.
How can one determine if one has been exposed to rhenium ?
We can measure rhenium levels in blood and most biological materials.
Determination of metals is done by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Mass Spectrometry), a method that enables the simultaneous detection of many metals. Its sensitivity and accuracy are significantly better than conventional atomic absorption, with the ability to measure metals at concentrations up to 1 in 1015 (1 in 1 quadrillion, ppq)!
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
