The Different Types of Laboratory Crucibles

Laboratory crucibles have been designed to bear extremely high temperatures and as such they must be made of robust materials. Laboratory crucibles are small utensils that are used for conducting high-temperature chemical reactions and analyses.

This article will outline some different types of laboratory crucibles, their benefits, and their uses.

Materials used for Laboratory Crucibles

Porcelain

Porcelain is an extremely economical material that can withstand sudden temperature changes. Laboratory crucibles made from this material have good chemical and acid resistance, are low cost, and can be used in temperatures up to 1050°C. However, porcelain laboratory crucibles are incompatible with HF and alkali salts.

PFTE

Laboratory crucibles can be molded from pure PFTE, which is a chemically inert material. The smooth surfaces of this material avoid contamination and can be cleaned easily. They are crack-free and can be used in temperatures between 196-280°C.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel laboratory crucibles can be used in cryo applications. These crucibles are formed from a single piece of material, less fragile than porcelain crucibles when dropped on a hard surface.

Nickel

Nickel laboratory crucibles are made from high purity nickel, formed from one piece of highly polished surfaces. Nickel crucibles cannot be used in experiments in which the presence of Ni can impact the results. Nickel crucibles can withstand temperatures up to 600°C, have excellent resistance to chlorine and gaseous hydrochloric acids. However, nickel laboratory crucibles have a low resistance to organic, sulfuric, and hydrochloric acids.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel crucibles are formed from low alloy steel and are relatively low cost. They can sometimes rust and can be used in temperatures of up to 500°C.

Platinum

For many years, developers of scientific equipment have been making use of the unique characteristics of platinum. Platinum has an extremely high melting point and can be used at temperatures of up to 1200°C, whilst still maintaining its strength.

Platinum laboratory crucibles are also chemically inert, resistant to oxidation in the air, and have a very high level of corrosion resistance against melted salts and acids.

Different Types of Platinum Laboratory Crucibles

As well as a range of different materials, laboratory crucibles can come in a variety of configurations to fit different applications which will be outlined here.

Loss on Ignition Crucibles

These laboratory crucibles are used for the analysis of minerals under the strain of ignition. These experiments need high thermal resistance and low chemical reactivity.

Volatile Matter Crucibles

The laboratory crucibles use a flanged lid to enhance stability in chemical reactions with enhanced extremity.

Capsule-Kawin Crucibles

These laboratory crucibles have capacities of between 8-19cc with depths of 15-35mm. They are shaped like a funnel with a flat bottom and excellent surface properties, making accurate chemical analysis possible.

Low Profile Crucibles

Low-profile crucibles provide optional reinforcements to minimize the gradual deformation of surfaces on the crucible. This means that the component has an enhanced service life, with reinforced rims, bases, and lids.

How XRF Scientific Can Help You

XRF Scientific has been developing and manufacturing reliable laboratory equipment for many years, to ensure your experiments produce accurate, repeatable results. To find out more about our range of laboratory crucibles, have a look at our website.