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Author: Subject: Crucible Materials
JJay
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[*] posted on 18-2-2016 at 12:54
Crucible Materials


I am looking at purchasing some crucibles for doing calcinations and melting small quantities of metals, as well as other high-temperature processes that involve solid reactants and intermediates.

I see zirconia, alumina, graphite, and porcelain crucibles on eBay. Most hobbyists who I know who melt metal like graphite, but I'm not sure how it would fare with oxidizing reactants. I remember using porcelain ones in chemistry classes.

What are the advantages / tradeoffs of various types of crucibles, and what kinds do you suggest keeping around for general use?
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zed
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[*] posted on 18-2-2016 at 14:43


Graphite with oxidizing reagents? Expect fire.
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Magpie
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[*] posted on 18-2-2016 at 15:06


I have melted silver in ceramic crucibles that I bought from a gold assay supplier. I believe they are mullite.



The single most important condition for a successful synthesis is good mixing - Nicodem
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JJay
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[*] posted on 18-2-2016 at 15:29


Quote: Originally posted by Magpie  
I have melted silver in ceramic crucibles that I bought from a gold assay supplier. I believe they are mullite.


Mullite looks like it would work well as a crucible material. It would also be excellent for tube furnaces.
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