Rutile

Rutile Needles

The Chemical formula is TiO2.  It is the most common of the titanium oxides.

It is used in the manufacture of optical elements, especially polarization optics.

Rutile Needles

The needles aren't as apparent in this view.  These samples come from Jones Mill Quary, Magnet Cove, Arkansas or Luzcan Talc Mine, St. Pierre, de Braughton, Quebec, Canada

Titanium is an important metal in the manufacture of supersonic aircraft 

 

F-100

 This fighter served from 1954 - 1971 in the USAF.  It would go Mach 1+ in level fight.

Sr-71 Reconnaissance Aircraft

This aircraft served from 1964 - 1998.  It could go Mach 3+ and 90,000 feet. 

Rutile made its contribution to supersonic flight which began in the early 1950's.  In the late 1940's and early 1950's it was a new metal to manufacturing aircraft.  They had to learn to machine it.  

I was unable to locate the date of its discovery and by whom.

 Follow Larry's Images on Instagram: 
If you wish to unsubscribe, email to leleicher45@gmail.com with "unsubscribe" in the subject line.