Wüstite

Wüstite is a mineral form of iron(II) oxide, also known as ferrous oxide. It is named after the German geologist Friedrich Wüst. Wüstite is a common mineral in the Earth's mantle and is also found in meteorites. It is a key component in the process of iron ore reduction, which is used to produce steel.

Characteristics

Wüstite is a cubic crystal system with a hardness of 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale. It is opaque and has a metallic to dull luster. Its color ranges from black to dark brown. Wüstite is not a stable mineral at the Earth's surface; it readily oxidizes to magnetite or hematite.

Formation and Occurrence

Wüstite forms under high pressure and temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle. It is also found in meteorites, particularly in those of the chondrite type. Wüstite is also a common product of the reduction of iron ores in a blast furnace, where it is mixed with other iron oxides and slag.

Uses

In industry, wüstite is used in the production of steel. The reduction of iron ore in a blast furnace produces wüstite, which is then further reduced to produce metallic iron. Wüstite is also used in the manufacture of ferrites, which are used in electronics and magnetic materials.

See Also

• Iron(II) oxide
• Ferrous oxide
• Iron ore
• Steel
• Ferrites