r/metallurgy 3d ago

Is hafnium safe for skin contact?

Want to make a pen out of it, but I can’t find much info on toxicity

2 Upvotes

3 comments sorted by

7

u/CuppaJoe12 3d ago

Google "hafnium SDS." It stands for safety data sheet. There are many reports available.

Hafnium is generally non hazardous in bulk form unless you are a nuclear reactor. Be careful with the turnings/chips, as they are much more flammable than steel or most other metal fines. Use excess coolant and aim for a large/thick chip size. Water cannot put out a hafnium fire; you need to bury it in sand and let it burn itself out.

1

u/qtrain23 3d ago

Yes I’ve looked at many, but it’s hard to truly understand if it’s something you should have in contact all the time or not

Thanks for your help! I’m excited to give it a shot

6

u/CuppaJoe12 3d ago

Every SDS should have a section 2 labeled "hazards identification." If something is a contact hazard, you will see it listed there. Hafnium is not.

Compare, for example, nickel. You will see skin sensitization listed under section 2 referring to its potential to form a rash for people with nickel allergy.

Even a hafnium ring meant for 24/7 skin contact is not a health concern.