Rhenium in the Earth's Crust: A Comprehensive Review of Mineralogy, Geochemistry and Economic Significance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/bpas.2023.42F.2.4Keywords:
Rhenium, Geochemistry, Molybdenite, Chalcopyrite, Economic ImplicationsAbstract
Rhenium, a unique and valuable metal with exceptional properties which is vital in various industrial applications, primarily found in conjunction with minerals like molybdenite and chalcopyrite, predominantly in western countries. Despite its rarity, understanding its geological distribution, geochemical characteristics, atomic structure, and behavior is essential. This paper provides a concise overview of the geological and geographical occurrences of rhenium, shedding light on its formation within both igneous and sedimentary environments. Additionally, it examines its economic significance, emphasizing its critical role in industries like aerospace, electronics, and petrochemicals due to its high-temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity enhancement. This comprehensive exploration highlights the importance of rhenium as a byproduct of mining, contributing significantly to technological advancements and innovation across various sectors.
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