Doing laboratory work with chemicals at hot temperatures can be very dangerous. The danger of laboratory work becomes even more significant if you do not have the right materials. Having the ability to host chemicals in a crucible is very important (try Malcom G Stevens INC for a real professional).You need crucible materials that will are non-reactive, have a resistance to heat, and are very strong. There are materials that exhibit these properties, but some materials are better than others at one or another. That is why crucibles are often made from different materials. Here are a few of the most common materials used in the production of crucibles, and the properties that they exhibit.

Stainless Steel Crucibles 

One of the most popular materials to use for a crucible is stainless steel. For the most part stainless steel crucibles will be used for cryo applications. They are generally formed from a single piece of material and are extremely resistant to fracturing when dropped. A stainless steel crucible can be used for projects that will project -292 through 1473 degrees Fahrenheit. These crucibles are used when concentrated alkali solutions will be used. Stainless steel is also resistant to nitric acid, nitrates, and potassium permanganate. They have a decent resistance to dilute sulfuric acid, acetic acid, boric acid, organic acids, and low concentrations of sulfates.   

Platinum Crucibles

Platinum is a very expensive metal per ounce, and so the fact that they are made into crucibles shows what a great material it is. Platinum has excellent resistance to chemical reactions, and has an extremely high melting point. If you are going to be working with chemicals or heating chemicals, platinum might be the best choice. Platinum can be heated as high as 2,192 degrees Fahrenheit. One of the best qualities about platinum is that maintains strength through these high temperatures. Platinum is for all intents and purposes chemically inert, and resists oxidation. Platinum is also going to give you a very good resistance to corrosion resistance against acids. 

Vitreous Carbon Crucibles

vitreous carbon crucibles combine glassy and ceramic properties with the properties of graphite. This material has an extremely high melting point, and is thus usually used in processes where extreme temperatures are used. In fact, these crucibles can be heated to 5432 degrees Fahrenheit. However, these crucibles are also resistant to thermal shock, and have a high hardness and strength. There are many different types of crucibles that you will be able to use. You will need to understand the processes that you are going to put your chemicals through, and choose your crucible accordingly. 

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