Lithium Metatungstate(LMT)

Heavy Liquid sold by LMT Liquid, llc

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between LMT and LST?

LMT costs much less to purchase and use than LST. LMT and LST are both Lithium based Tungstates. The viscosity of LMT is higher than LST at high densities, in most cases the difference in viscosity is not a factor. LMT and LST are both sold in liquid form and both are thermally stable. The maximum usable density at room temperature (20 degrees C) of LMT is higher than LST, 3.0 vs 2.85. When using LMT there is no need to keep the room temperature higher than standard. LMT and LST can both be reused and recovered by evaporating(boiling) water after washing to raise density. In most cases LMT and LST can be used interchangeably. Many of our customers are former LST users and we gain new former LST customers every month.

What are the differences between LMT and SPT?

LMT costs much less to purchase and use than SPT. LMT is a Lithium based Tungstate and SPT is a Sodium based Tungstate. The viscosity of LMT and SPT are very similar. LMT has higher thermal stability than SPT. LMT is sold as a liquid while LST is generally sold as a powder. LMT and SPT can both be reused and recovered by evaporating water after washing to raise density. In most cases LMT and SPT can be used interchangeably. Many of our customers are former SPT users and we gain new former SPT customers every month.

Is LMT thermally stable?

Yes, LMT is thermally stable as a liquid. During manufacturing and recycling, LMT is heated to boiling to evaporate (remove) water. Do not "dry out" LMT at high temperatures as permanent damage to the LMT will occur.

What densities can LMT be used at?

At room temperature (20 degrees C), LMT can be adjusted and used anywhere between 1.01 Specific Gravity and 3.0 Specific Gravity.

Do many facilities use LMT?

Yes, LMT has been in use since about 1994. LMT high density solution has been used successfully by thousands of companies and universities for hundreds of thousands of density separations. LMT is currently in use at facilities in North America, South America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa.

What is the Viscosity of LMT?

Viscosity and Density of LMT at 23 degrees C.

Viscosity = 1.10 cSt at 1.47 g/ml density

Viscosity = 1.30 cSt at 1.74 g/ml density

Viscosity = 1.90 cSt at 2.09 g/ml density

Viscosity = 3.30 cSt at 2.42 g/ml density

Viscosity = 9.60 cSt at 2.78 g/ml density

Viscosity = 12.5 cSt at 2.85 g/ml density

The viscosity of LMT is similar to SPT and higher than LST. The viscosity of LMT is not an issue for most separations. Contact us to discuss your application.

Will LMT react with any minerals?

The pH of LMT is approximately 4.0 and may react with some minerals such as limestone and sulfides if left in contact for extended periods of time. This is usually not an issue during the normal use of LMT.

What type of containers and utensils should I use with LMT?

Only plastic or glass should be used while working with or storing LMT.

Will the density of LMT be affected by changes in room temperature?

Normal changes in room temperature will not change the density of LMT enough to impact most density separations. Water from an LMT solution will evaporate at room temperature and the density may be impacted. It is advised that LMT solutions are kept covered to prevent evaporation.

Is LMT safe to use?

LMT is safe to use when standard laboratory procedures are followed. No fume hood is required. As with any work in the laboratory, rubber gloves and safety glasses should be worn.

Why is the color of LMT differ from my last order?

In order to keep our costs low, we source our raw materials from different sources. Sometimes the impurity levels can differ from each supplier and the impurities can change the color of the LMT. The color of the LMT does not alter its performance.