Toxicity of Rhenium

Rhenium should be handled with care as it may have toxic properties that are not yet apparent. Little is known about rhenium's toxicity because it is such a rare element, used in minute quantities. Some rhenium compounds are toxic.

Uses

• Rhenium is a rare metallic element used in electrical equipment, medical treatment and instruments, photographic flash lamps and jewelry.

Elemental Assistant

• Rhenium is also used with other metals, such as molybdenum and tungsten, to increase their ductility, or malleability. Chemists also use rhenium as a catalyst.

Toxicity

• Inhalation of rhenium dust caused pulmonary fibrosis in animal experiments. Certain rhenium compounds are known to have toxic effects. Rhenium hexafluoride irritates the eyes and skin. Rhenium VII sulfide produces toxic fumes when it is heated and ignites when it comes into contact with air. Hexamethyl rhenium is highly explosive.

Evidence

• There is a lack of evidence about possible toxicity. Rhenium is used in such small quantities that exposure is very low, and toxic effects are difficult to assess.

Environment

• Rhenium's possible environmental effects are also unknown due to the tiny amounts used.