Selenium powder is a fine, gray-to-black, or reddish-brown metallic powder (CAS 7782-49-2) known for its semiconducting and photoconductive properties. It is widely used in industrial applications, including manufacturing electronics (rectifiers, photocells), solar cells, rubber, and glass decolorizing. High-purity versions (99.99%) are common for research.
Key Aspects of Selenium Powder:
Properties: It has a metallic or glassy luster and is typically available in particle sizes like -100 mesh or -325 mesh.
Safety & Handling: Selenium powder is toxic if ingested. It should be handled with care in laboratory or industrial settings.
Applications:
Electronics: Essential for making rectifiers, photocells, and photoelectric cells.
Industrial: Used in glass manufacturing as a decolorizer or colorant, and in rubber production.
Metallurgy: Added to alloys to improve machinability.
Forms: Available in amorphous or crystalline forms.
It is important to distinguish this industrial/chemical grade powder from nutritional selenium supplements, which are taken in microgram doses for health benefits.
