Sodium Tungstate Ph
Sodium tungstate (Na2WO4) is an inorganic compound composed of sodium cations and tungstate anions. It is a white crystalline powder, soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. Sodium tungstate has various applications as a catalyst, reagent, and as a raw material for producing tungsten metal. In addition, it is used in the production of other tungsten-based compounds, such as tungsten carbide.
The physical properties of sodium tungstate include a melting point of 930 °C, a boiling point of 1,650 °C, and a density of 5.9 g/cm3. The compound has a monoclinic crystal structure, with a space group of P21/c. The tungstate anions in the crystal lattice are surrounded by sodium cations, forming a three-dimensional network.
Sodium tungstate is typically prepared by reacting tungsten ores or concentrates with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) in the presence of air or oxygen. The resulting sodium tungstate solution is then purified and crystallized to obtain the final product.
In summary, sodium tungstate is an important inorganic compound with various applications in industry, chemistry, and materials science. Its preparation involves the reaction of tungsten ores or concentrates with sodium hydroxide or carbonate, followed by purification and crystallization.