Facts About Strongest Metals  on Earth

By Sara Fathima

Sep 20, 2022

Tungsten

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 1,725 MPa

This metal is almost impossible to melt.  When pure tungsten is made into a fine  powder, it can spontaneously ignite.  Tungsten is used in making ammunition, light bulb filaments, and paints.

W 74

Chromium 

760 MPa

Known for its shiny appearance, this metal rates the highest on the Mohs hardness scale. However, it is quite brittle and needs to be mixed with other metals to obtain greater tensile strength. It is used in the manufacturing of stainless steel and chrome plating. 

Cr 24

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Titanium

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1260 MPa

This metal is used primarily in the aerospace industry and bicycles because of its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion. It is also used in dental implants. It is the only metal that can burn without oxygen. 

Ti 22

Iron

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540 MPa

The most abundant metal in the total composition of our planet and the sixth most common element in the universe. It is used to manufacture steel, build bridges, and rifle barrels. 

Fe 26

Vanadium 

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800 MPa

Named after a Norse goddess; this transition metal occurs in about 65 minerals. It is toxic and needs to be handled with care. It is often used as  a steel additive and in producing superconducting magnets. It is also  used in nuclear reactors. 

V 23

Zirconium 

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330 MPa

A transition metal with a greyish colour, it is extremely strong and malleable making it ideal to be used in cosmetics or in nuclear power stations. It is highly resistant to corrosion.

Zr 40

Osmium

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1000 MPa

Occurs as a by-product of nickel refining or found in osmiridium. It is used in the form of an alloy as a phonograph needle. Its tetraoxide, in the spongy form, is used to detect fingerprints. 

Os 76

Tantalum

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900 MPa

Tantalum is found naturally in the mineral coltan. It is used in various alloys to add high strength and ductility. The metal is used in making surgical equipment, missile parts, camera lenses, etc.  

Ta 73