Molten Tungsten in Your Bathtub: A Cautionary Tale

Injecting molten tungsten into your bathtub might seem like a bizarre DIY experiment, but the consequences can be catastrophic. This article explores the potential outcomes of such an experiment and dispels the myth that it could be contained or controlled. Whether you're considering this dangerous endeavor or purely curious, read on to understand the ins and outs of this potentially hazardous scenario.

What Would Happen if I Dipped Molten Tungsten into My Bathtub?

The idea of pouring molten tungsten into a bathtub for any purpose is extremely dangerous and impractical. Tungsten melts at an astounding 3422 degrees Celsius (6192 degrees Fahrenheit), making it one of the hardest and most refractory metals known to man. To achieve such extreme temperatures, you would need an exceptionally powerful source of heat, such as a large industrial furnace or a specialized crucible. Even then, finding the right materials to manage such intense heat is challenging.

Types of Bathtubs

Bathtubs come in various forms, each with different material compositions and levels of resistance to extreme temperatures. Here’s an overview of what can happen to different types of bathtubs when exposed to molten tungsten:

Plastic Bathtubs

A plastic bathtub would instantly melt and potentially catch fire, leading to a dangerous situation. Any materials beneath the tub, such as a wooden or concrete subfloor, would also be destroyed. The intense heat from the molten tungsten could cause structural damage to the entire building, making it unsafe to remain inside.

FRP Composite Bathtubs

FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composite bathtubs may offer more resistance due to the thickness of the glass mat. However, if the heat is intense enough, it will eventually melt the glass and the molten tungsten will conduct through, potentially causing significant damage to the subfloor. The process is slow, but the outcome is equally destructive.

Cast Iron/Enamelled Bathtubs

Cast iron and enameled bathtubs are another story. The enamel will crack and pop off due to the intense heat, exposing the metal. The metal itself, designed to withstand water and everyday wear, will struggle to cope with such extreme conditions. The cast iron will expand, contract, and possibly warp under these conditions, making it unsuitable for continued use.

The Consequences of Such an Experiment

The potential results of pouring molten tungsten into a bathtub are dire. Water in the tub would react explosively as it turns to steam, leading to a steam explosion that creates super-heated steam and splatters molten tungsten in all directions. If there is no water, the intense heat alone is enough to cause significant damage to the subfloor and any other materials beneath, leading to total destruction of the area.

Why Perform Such an Experiment?

It’s one thing to discuss the potential outcomes of an experiment like this, but it’s equally important to consider why someone might want to do it in the first place. Motivations could range from curiosity to a misguided form of scientific inquiry, but the risk simply does not justify the potential consequences.

Safe Alternatives

Given the risks involved, it’s advisable to explore more controlled and safer alternatives for any experiments or demonstrations involving extreme temperatures. Use controlled laboratory settings and protective gear to handle such materials and conduct experiments under proper supervision.

Conclusion

Inserting molten tungsten into your bathtub is not only dangerous but also practically impossible to achieve safely. The extreme temperatures, potential for explosions, and destruction of materials make this a hazardous experiment. Instead, consider safer and more controlled approaches to your scientific investigations. Embrace the spirit of curiosity while prioritizing safety and practicality.