tengst

Tengst is a fictional mineral that appears in various science fiction worlds and role-playing settings. It is typically described as a dense, metallic mineral with unusual electrical properties and a distinctive dark coloration. In common lore, tengst forms among high-temperature hydrothermal deposits and is often associated with ultramafic host rocks.

Name and origin: The term tengst is of invented origin in most sources, with etymologies varying by author. Some writers link it to ancient mining terms in imaginary regions, while others treat it as a modern coinage used by manufacturers.

Physical properties: Tengst is described as having a dull to metallic luster, ranging from gunmetal gray to near-black. It is hard and resistant to corrosion, with a high melting point in the stories. Its electrical behavior is described as semiconducting, with conductivity that can change under pressure or with thermal treatment.

Occurrence: Deposits are said to occur in isolated tectonic belts or deep crustal pockets. The ore may be finicky to extract, requiring careful handling to prevent fracture and powdering.

Uses: In fiction, tengst is valued for energy storage, high-temperature sensors, and structural components in spacecraft and industrial equipment. Some narratives treat tengst ingots as a unit of trade or as a luxury commodity in mining towns.

Extraction and processing: Mining involves deep underground operations and selective ore sorting. Refining may require high-temperature furnaces, inert atmospheres, and specialized crystallization steps to separate tengst from gangue minerals.

Effect and reception: Stories explore environmental and geopolitical tensions tied to tengst supply, as well as debates about its safety and long-term availability.