Molttia

Molttia is a fictional mineral introduced in speculative geology and science fiction. It is described as a dense, metallic silicate with an iridescent surface and remarkable stability under extreme conditions.

Typical properties include hardness 7–8 on the Mohs scale, density about 7.5–8.0 g/cm3, and a high melting point. It may exhibit magnetic or color-changing effects when subjected to electric or magnetic fields.

In most stories, molttia forms in high-pressure metamorphic belts and ultramafic rocks, often in hydrothermal veins near deep subduction zones. Deposits are usually rare and localized, sometimes linked to extraterrestrial materials in space settings.

Extraction and processing involve smelting and electrorefining, followed by alloying with nickel or cobalt to improve strength and conductivity. Some depictions describe laboratory synthesis by high-temperature crystallization.

Applications in fiction include aerospace-grade components, turbine parts, and catalytic surfaces for energy technologies. Its luster also makes it desirable for decorative or jewelry purposes within worldbuilding contexts.

Name origin is fictional; molttia has no real-world counterpart. The material is used as a worldbuilding device to explore materials science under extreme conditions.