What should be molten Lead Fluoride or Crayolite Contained In? (Best Crucible)

[Panthera Leo]

Hello,

I am willing to do some experiments with molten Lead Fluoride and Crayolite in an electric muffle furnace, but I am not sure what type of crucible to use? Platinum Crucibles are way too expensive and I am assuming Alumina Crucible is not suitable... so, are there any other alternatives?

Thank You.

 

[lewdtenant]

Have you tried graphite?

Alumina would work in theory, as it has a higher melting point than either cryolite or PbF2, but then again it depends on your maximum process temperature and what you're trying to accomplish.

 

[Panthera Leo]

Graphite seems like a good alternative... Thanks.

I am trying to synthesize Corundum Crystals. :)

This is a similar experiment:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0022024874904011

My maximum operating temperature will be below 1200 Celcius.

How about a Zirconia Crucible ?

Is cryolite able to dissolve Zirconia / Graphite like it does with Alumina? I couldn't find any phase diagrams online...

Thanks again. I highly appreciate your contributions.

 

[lewdtenant]

This is why I like replying to threads - I always learn something!

I've never actually worked with cryolite, and hadn't looked into its usefulness. Not sure of it's compatibility with those materials and would have to research it myself.

 

[alphy]

I would recommend using a ceramic crucible made of either zirconia or silicon carbide for containing molten Lead Fluoride and Crayolite. These materials are able to withstand high temperatures and chemical reactions, making them suitable for this type of experiment. Additionally, they are more affordable alternatives to platinum crucibles. It is important to ensure that the crucible is properly rated for the temperature and chemical composition of the molten substances to prevent any potential reactions or damage. I would also recommend conducting a small test run with a small amount of the substances to ensure the chosen crucible is suitable before proceeding with the full experiment.