Rhenium is a silver with a very high melting point (the third highest after coal and tungsten). It is very hard and resistant to corrosion, but it oxidizes slowly in the air.
Rhenium Applications
Rhenium is a component in turbine blade alloys. It is also an ideal metal for 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 and for electrical contacts and arcs. Rhenium platinum alloy is used in catalysis to produce high-octane hydrocarbons and is used in unleaded gasoline. Other applications of rhenium alloys are in X-ray medical devices, superconductors, jewelry, and elsewhere.
Effects of rhenium on human health
Little is known about rhenium's toxicity. It can cause eye and skin irritation, digestive tract irritation upon ingestion, and respiratory irritation upon inhalation.
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 diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70% and 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 solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted in relation to each individual case, family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your 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 contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
