Hello there, I'm an expert in the field of materials science and engineering. I specialize in understanding the properties of various materials and how they interact with extreme environments, such as those found in volcanic activity. Let's delve into the fascinating topic of what materials would not melt in lava.

Lava, which is essentially molten rock, can reach temperatures ranging from 700 to 1200 degrees Celsius, depending on its composition and the specific volcanic activity. To survive in such an environment, a material must have a melting point significantly higher than the temperature of lava. There are several elements and alloys that possess such properties and are considered heat-resistant or refractory.

Metals are often the go-to materials for extreme heat applications due to their high melting points and thermal conductivity. Some metals that are known for their heat resistance include:


1. Tungsten: With a melting point of approximately 3422 degrees Celsius, tungsten is one of the metals with the highest melting points. It is often used in high-temperature applications such as filaments in light bulbs and electrodes in electrical applications.


2. Titanium: Although it has a lower melting point than tungsten, around 1668 degrees Celsius, titanium is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for high-temperature environments.


3. Molybdenum: With a melting point of about 2617 degrees Celsius, molybdenum is another metal that can withstand high temperatures. It is often used in the production of superalloys and as a component in steel alloys.


4. Rhenium: Rhenium has one of the highest melting points of all metals, at around 3180 degrees Celsius. It is a rare metal and is often used in high-temperature applications such as jet engines and heat shields.


5. Platinum: Platinum has a melting point of 1768 degrees Celsius and is known for its resistance to corrosion and high-temperature stability.


6. Alloys: Certain alloys, such as Inconel and Hastelloy, are designed to have high melting points and excellent resistance to heat and corrosion. These alloys are often used in aerospace, chemical processing, and other industries that require materials to perform under extreme conditions.

It's important to note that while these metals have high melting points, their ability to withstand lava would also depend on other factors such as the duration of exposure, the presence of corrosive gases, and the mechanical stress they might be subjected to.

The idea of creating a pipe or pump that could survive in lava is theoretically possible with the use of these heat-resistant materials. However, as you rightly pointed out, the maintenance of such a system would be incredibly challenging. The extreme heat, corrosive environment, and potential for mechanical failure would make regular inspections and repairs a daunting task.

In addition to metals, there are also ceramics and ceramic-matrix composites that can withstand high temperatures. These materials are often used in applications such as engine components, heat shields, and furnace linings. Ceramics like alumina, zirconia, and silicon carbide have high melting points and good thermal shock resistance, making them suitable for extreme environments.

Furthermore, there are refractory bricks and castables made from materials like silica, alumina, and magnesia, which are used to line furnaces and kilns. These refractory materials can withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures without melting.

In conclusion, while it is theoretically possible to create materials that would not melt in lava, the practical application and maintenance of such materials present significant challenges. The choice of material would depend on the specific requirements of the application, including temperature, exposure time, and environmental factors.

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these are all metals that are heat resistant enough to avoid melting in lava since,most lava is from 700-1200--. So yes,theoretically you could create a pipe and pump that could survive in lava. ... Also, i can't imagine that maintenance on such a pump would be anything other then nightmarish.read more >>