Juan José de Elhuyar, discoverer of tungsten

The history of chemistry is full of pioneering figures who, with ingenuity and dedication, expanded the limits of human knowledge. One of these characters is Juan José de Elhuyara Spanish scientist who, together with his brother Fausto, left an indelible mark by discovering the element tungsten (also known as tungsten), a key material for modern industry.

Juan José de Elhuyar was born on June 15, 1754 in Logrono, Spainwithin a Basque family. From a young age he showed interest in science, especially chemistry and mineralogy, disciplines that were booming during the 18th century.

He trained academically in various European institutions, where he studied chemistry, physics and metallurgy. His years of apprenticeship in countries such as France and Germany provided him with access to the latest scientific advances and allowed him to work alongside some of the most influential chemists of his time.

The discovery of tungsten

The most notable milestone in Juan José de Elhuyar’s career occurred in 1783, when, together with his brother Fausto, he managed to isolate a new chemical element: tungsten (W).

The context of the discovery

Tungsten had previously been identified in the form of a mineral known as wolframitebut its chemical composition was a mystery. The Elhuyar began investigating this mineral after suspecting that it contained a new element, unknown until then.

Working in the laboratory of the Vergara Seminary, in the Basque Country, they managed to reduce a wolframite compound using charcoal, separating pure tungsten for the first time. This discovery marked a before and after in modern chemistry.

The impact of tungsten

Tungsten became a fundamental material due to its unique properties:

• High density and hardness: It is the metal with the highest melting point of all known elements, making it indispensable in high temperature applications.
• Wear resistance: Used in cutting tools, heavy machinery and coatings.
• Conductivity: Key for light bulb filaments and electronic components.

The work of the Elhuyar brothers not only enriched the periodic table, but also laid the foundations for industrial developments that endure to this day.

Scientific career and legacy of Juan José de Elhuyar

After the discovery of tungsten, Juan José de Elhuyar continued his career as a scientist and teacher, playing prominent roles in different institutions. In 1786, he moved to Mexico, then part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, where he worked on the reorganization of mining, a crucial sector for the colonial economy.

Mining director in New Spain

Juan José was appointed director of the Royal Mining Seminar in Mexico City, a key institution for the training of engineers and the modernization of mining techniques. Under his direction, he implemented improvements in mineral extraction and refining methods, promoting technological innovation in the sector.

Recent years

After his work in Mexico, Juan José de Elhuyar returned to Europe. He died September 20, 1796 in Bogotá, Colombia, while he was working on projects related to mining in South America.

Contributions beyond tungsten

Although the discovery of tungsten is his most recognized achievement, Juan José de Elhuyar also contributed to the advancement of metallurgy and mining, essential disciplines for the economy and scientific progress of his time.

His practical approach and his ability to apply chemical principles to industrial problems make him a precursor of applied chemistry.

The legacy of Juan José de Elhuyar today

The figure of Juan José de Elhuyar is a reminder of the lasting impact that a scientific discovery can have on the world. Tungsten remains a critical material in sectors such as aerospace, electronics and defense.

Furthermore, his life symbolizes the importance of international collaboration in science. His studies in various European countries and his work in Latin America reflect a global spirit that remains fundamental for scientific research today.

Curiosities about Juan José de Elhuyar

• A mineral with history: Tungsten has two names: “tungsten”, used in Europe, and “tungsten”, more common in the United States. Both terms refer to the same element, but have different etymological origins.
• Inspiration for future generations: In Spain, institutions and streets are named after the Elhuyar brothers, recognizing their contribution to science.