On February 28th, in response to recent inquiries from enterprises and following communication with relevant departments of the General Administration of Customs, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) provided answers to common identification questions regarding tungsten, tellurium, and related items. One of the highly anticipated questions was whether ammonium metatungstate falls under the scope of dual-use item controls.
MOFCOM clearly stated that ammonium metatungstate, an acidic compound of tungsten, is not included in the list of dual-use items currently under control.
Ammonium Metatungstate (AMT), with the chemical formula (NH?)?H?W??O??·xH?O, is a significant tungsten compound. It typically appears as a white or pale yellow crystalline powder, exhibiting good solubility in water and stability. Ammonium metatungstate plays a crucial role in the smelting and processing of tungsten, serving as an essential raw material for the production of tungstic acid, tungsten powder, tungsten wire, tungsten alloys, and other tungsten products.
The value of ammonium metatungstate in industrial production and practical applications cannot be underestimated, and its importance is reflected in multiple aspects. In the petrochemical industry, it serves as the core raw material for tungsten-based catalysts in refineries, significantly contributing to improved refining efficiency with its excellent catalytic activity and selectivity. In the ceramic industry, ammonium metatungstate acts as a colorant and mineralizer, effectively adjusting the hue and color gradation of ceramic products, making them more vibrant and diverse. Additionally, it is widely used in the manufacture of fire-resistant fabrics, thermal insulation materials, flame retardants, corrosion inhibitors, and various other products. Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in high-tech fields such as semiconductors and nuclear shielding.
The market demand for ammonium metatungstate has continued to grow in recent years, primarily due to its wide range of applications in multiple industrial sectors. With the global economic recovery and the emergence of emerging markets, the demand for tungsten and its compounds has been increasing. Particularly in high-tech fields such as aerospace, electronics, and energy, there is a strong demand for high-purity tungsten products. This makes the market prospect for ammonium metatungstate very promising.
