Tellurium (Te) – Definition, Preparation, Properties, Uses, Compounds, Reactivity

Dive into the world of Tellurium with our detailed guide. This often-overlooked element holds a unique place in the periodic table. As educators, understanding Tellurium’s properties and applications can enrich science lessons and spark students’ curiosity. Our guide covers everything from its fundamental definition to its practical uses, providing valuable insights for classroom discussions. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your teaching toolkit with knowledge about Tellurium.

Tellurium Element Information

Other Metalloids

Tellurium Formula

• Formula: Te
• Composition: Comprised of a single tellurium atom.
• Bond Type: Tellurium generally forms covalent bonds, utilizing its six valence electrons.
• Molecular Structure: Characterized by a silvery-white, brittle, crystalline form.
• Electron Configuration: Contains 52 electrons, with the configuration [Kr] 4d¹⁰ 5s² 5p⁴.
• Significance: Vital in the production of thermoelectric materials, solar panels, and as an additive in steel and copper.
• Role in Chemistry: Tellurium is significant in the study of semiconductor physics and material science, impacting the development of renewable energy technologies.

Atomic Structure of Tellurium

Properties of Tellurium

Physical Properties of Tellurium

Chemical Properties of Tellurium

Tellurium’s chemical properties are intriguing and diverse, contributing to its use in various applications:

• Reaction with Oxygen: Tellurium reacts with oxygen to form tellurium dioxide (TeO₂). This reaction can be represented as: Te+O₂→TeO₂Te+O₂​→TeO₂​. TeO₂ is a white, crystalline solid used in the glass industry.
• Reaction with Hydrogen: It forms hydrogen telluride (H₂Te) when reacting with hydrogen, a reaction described by the equation: Te+H₂→H₂TeTe+H₂​→H₂​Te. H₂Te is a volatile and toxic gas.
• Reaction with Halogens: Tellurium reacts with halogens to form tellurium halides. For example, with chlorine, it forms tellurium tetrachloride (TeCl₄), as shown: Te+2Cl₂→TeCl₄Te+2Cl₂​→TeCl₄​.
• Combination with Metals: It forms tellurides when combined with metals, such as bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃), which is used in thermoelectric devices.
• Solubility: Tellurium is resistant to acids but soluble in strong alkalis, forming tellurides.
• Conductivity: As a semiconductor, its electrical conductivity is affected by impurities and temperature.
• Toxicity: Although not as toxic as some other elements, tellurium compounds can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.

Thermodynamic Properties of Tellurium

Material Properties of Tellurium

Electromagnetic Properties of Tellurium

Nuclear Properties of Tellurium

Chemical Compounds of Tellurium

Tellurium, a relatively rare element, forms various chemical compounds with distinct properties and applications. Here, we explore the top six tellurium compounds.

1. Tellurium Dioxide (TeO₂)

Tellurium dioxide is a solid white powder that exhibits piezoelectric properties, making it useful in acousto-optic devices. It’s used in the manufacture of glass with high refractive indices.

Chemical Equation: Te+O₂→TeO₂​

2. Tellurium Tetrachloride (TeCl₄)

This yellow to white crystalline solid is used as a precursor to other tellurium compounds. It’s employed in the synthesis of organic tellurium compounds in chemistry.

Chemical Equation: Te+2Cl₂→TeCl₄​

3. Tellurium Hexafluoride (TeF₆)

A colorless, toxic gas, tellurium hexafluoride is notable for its high electron affinity and reactivity towards glass. It is used in semiconductor research.

Chemical Equation: Te+3F₂​→TeF₆​

4. Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)

An important semiconductor material, cadmium telluride is primarily used in solar cells. It’s known for its efficiency in converting sunlight into electrical power.

Chemical Equation: $\text{Cd}+\text{Te}\to \text{CdTe}$

5. Bismuth Telluride (Bi₂Te₃)

This compound is a thermoelectric material, which means it can convert temperature differences into electricity, and vice versa. It’s used in cooling and power generation applications.

Chemical Equation: 2Bi+3Te→Bi₂​Te₃​

6. Lead Telluride (PbTe)

Lead telluride is another thermoelectric material known for its effectiveness at high temperatures. It finds its applications in thermoelectric generators and cooling devices.

Chemical Equation: $\text{Pb}+\text{Te}\to \text{PbTe}$

Isotopes of Tellurium

Tellurium has several isotopes, each with unique properties. The table below provides a concise overview of its key isotopes.

Uses of Tellurium

1. Alloying Agent

Tellurium serves as a potent alloying agent, significantly enhancing the machinability of copper and stainless steel. When added to these metals, it forms an alloy that exhibits improved thermal conductivity and a lower melting point. This modification is crucial in creating more malleable and workable metals for industrial applications. The resulting alloy displays enhanced strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for use in electronics, machining, and other high-stress environments.

2. Semiconductor and Electronic Component Manufacturing

Tellurium is integral in the semiconductor industry. It’s used to create cadmium telluride (CdTe), a vital component in thin-film solar cells. These cells are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to traditional silicon-based cells. Additionally, Tellurium is used in thermoelectric devices which convert heat directly into electricity. This application is particularly valuable in power generation and recycling waste heat into usable energy.

3. Glass Coloring and Ceramics

Tellurium imparts a unique color to glass and ceramics. When added in small quantities, it can produce a range of colors from light blue to deep red, depending on the concentration and the other elements present. This property is exploited in the manufacture of colored glass for decorative and architectural purposes. In ceramics, Tellurium enhances thermal resistance, making the material suitable for high-temperature applications.

4. Rubber Production

In rubber production, Tellurium acts as an accelerator in the vulcanization process. This process is essential for enhancing the durability, elasticity, and heat resistance of rubber. The presence of Tellurium in rubber compounds results in products with superior aging properties and increased resistance to abrasion, making it ideal for automotive tires and industrial rubber products.

5. Chemical Industry

Tellurium is used as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions, particularly in the refining of crude oil. It helps in the oxidative cracking process, making the breakdown of heavy crude components more efficient. This leads to the production of high-quality fuels and lubricants. Its catalytic properties are also employed in the synthesis of organic compounds, playing a significant role in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries.

Commercial Production of Tellurium

Mining and Extraction

Tellurium is primarily obtained as a byproduct of copper and lead refining. During the electrorefining of copper, anode slimes form, which contain various valuable elements, including Tellurium. The process involves leaching the anode slimes with sulfuric acid, followed by a series of purification steps to isolate Tellurium.

Recovery from Recycled Materials

As environmental and sustainability concerns grow, recovering Tellurium from recycled materials has gained importance. Electronic waste, particularly from older photovoltaic cells and thermoelectric devices, serves as a significant source. The recycling process typically involves chemical treatment to dissolve the Tellurium, followed by precipitation or electro-winning to recover the metal.

Refining Process

Post-extraction, Tellurium undergoes a refining process to achieve the desired purity level. This process may include roasting the Tellurium compounds in air, followed by reduction with carbon or hydrogen. The resulting Tellurium is then purified through processes like zone refining, where impurities are segregated and removed, ensuring a high-purity final product.

Quality Control

Ensuring the quality of Tellurium is crucial for its various applications, especially in electronics and solar energy sectors. The quality control process involves rigorous testing for purity and impurities. Advanced techniques like mass spectrometry and X-ray fluorescence are employed to certify the quality of the Tellurium produced.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The production of Tellurium must adhere to environmental and safety regulations. Handling Tellurium requires precautions due to its toxicity in certain forms. The industry must also address environmental concerns related to mining and refining processes, ensuring minimal ecological impact and compliance with environmental protection standards.

Health Effects of Tellurium

1. Acute Exposure Effects

• Respiratory Irritation: Inhalation of Tellurium dust or vapors can cause respiratory tract irritation, leading to coughing, sore throat, and shortness of breath.
• Garlic Odor: A distinctive symptom of Tellurium exposure is the garlic-like odor on the breath and skin, caused by the body metabolizing Tellurium.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Ingesting Tellurium compounds may lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Skin and Eye Irritation: Contact with Tellurium dust can irritate the skin and eyes, causing redness, itching, and burning sensations.

2. Chronic Exposure Effects

• Neurological Impacts: Long-term exposure to Tellurium can lead to fatigue, drowsiness, headaches, and in severe cases, neuropathy, characterized by tingling and numbness in the extremities.
• Liver and Kidney Damage: Prolonged exposure may impair liver and kidney function, potentially leading to organ damage.
• Dermatological Issues: Continuous skin contact with Tellurium can cause rashes and changes in skin pigmentation.
• Metal Fume Fever: Chronic inhalation of Tellurium vapors can result in metal fume fever, a flu-like condition with symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches.

3. Reproductive and Developmental Effects

• Reproductive Toxicity: There is limited data on the reproductive effects of Tellurium in humans. However, animal studies suggest potential reproductive toxicity.
• Developmental Risks: Exposure during pregnancy could pose risks to fetal development, although specific effects and thresholds are not well-defined.

Environmental Effects of Tellurium

1. Terrestrial Impact

• Soil Contamination: Tellurium compounds, if released into the soil, can adversely affect soil quality and disrupt the balance of soil microorganisms.
• Plant Toxicity: High concentrations of Tellurium in soil can be toxic to plants, inhibiting growth and leading to chlorosis (yellowing of leaves).

2. Aquatic Impact

• Water Pollution: Tellurium compounds can contaminate water bodies, posing a threat to aquatic life. It can affect the growth and reproduction of aquatic organisms.
• Bioaccumulation: Certain forms of Tellurium can bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms, leading to higher concentrations in the food chain.

3. Air Quality

• Atmospheric Contamination: Emission of Tellurium dust and vapors during industrial processes can affect air quality, potentially harming wildlife and disrupting natural ecosystems.

4. Ecological Balance

• Ecosystem Disruption: Elevated levels of Tellurium in the environment can disrupt local ecosystems, affecting the natural balance and biodiversity.

5. Mitigation and Management

• Regulatory Standards: Strict regulations and standards are necessary to control Tellurium emissions and prevent environmental contamination.
• Remediation Techniques: Employing effective remediation techniques, like phytoremediation, can help in removing Tellurium from contaminated sites.
• Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable mining and recycling practices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of Tellurium production and usage.

What is Tellurium Used For?

Tellurium is primarily used in alloys, solar panels, thermoelectric devices, colored glass, and rubber production, enhancing durability and efficiency.

What Does Tellurium Do to the Body?

Tellurium exposure can cause respiratory irritation, garlic-like body odor, skin rashes, and, in severe cases, liver and kidney damage.

Is Tellurium Harmful to Humans?

Yes, Tellurium can be harmful; inhaling its dust or vapors leads to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential organ damage with prolonged exposure.

What are 2 Interesting Facts About Tellurium?

1. Tellurium has the unique property of turning glass and ceramics different colors.
2. Despite its rarity, Tellurium is crucial in modern solar panel technology.

Tellurium plays a pivotal role in various industries, from enhancing alloys to revolutionizing solar energy. Despite its benefits, caution is advised due to its potential health hazards. Understanding Tellurium’s uses and impacts is crucial in leveraging its properties while ensuring safety and environmental sustainability. This guide offers comprehensive insights into Tellurium, aiding in informed and responsible utilization.