Iron filings are very small pieces of iron, used in scientific demonstrations to show the direction of a magnetic field. Iron represents magnetic properties, has a high hardness and density, is used in many applications and accounts for 95% by weight of the world's production of the metal.

IDENTIFICATION AND PROPERTIES

Name: Iron filings
Synonyms: Metallic iron, elemental iron.
CAS: 7439-89-6
EC: 231-096-4

• Boiling point: 300 ºC approx.
• Melting point: 1500 ºC approx.
• Vapour pressure: Very low, not harmful at room temperature
• Solubility in water: Very low, will corrode
• Bulk density: 4.5 Tond/M3 approx.

USES IRON FILINGS

• Scientific demonstrations
• Visualisation of the direction of the magnetic field
• School internships