Home Boron nitride hexagonal boron nitride | cubic boron nitride | crystal lattice | photo

SEM-image of boron nitride powder
Fig. 1. SEM-image (secondary electrons) of hexagonal boron nitride powder.

Crystal lattice of boron nitride and graphite
Fig. 2. Crystal lattice of boron nitride (left) and  graphite (right).
Formula BN
Molecular mass 24.82 g/mol
Density (hexagonal) 2.27 g/cm3
Density (cubic) 3.48 g/cm3
Melting range 2700-3000°C
CAS-No. 10043-11-5
EINECS-No. 2331366

Chemical formula BN, further chemical data in separate table. Boron-nitogen-compound with hexagonal (graphite-like) or cubic (diamond-like) crystal lattice structure.

Hexagonal boron nitride crystallizes like graphite in a layer lattice and is therefore often called "white graphite". Its very good thermal (high melting- or sublimation point and good thermal shock stability) and physical characteristics (good electrical insulator, good heat conductivity and good high temperature lubrication qualities) make it an interesting ceramic material. One of the most well-known characteristics of hexagonal boron nitride is the very bad wettability by metal melts (like Al, Mg, Zn, Pb and Cu), slags as well as salt melts. Boron nitride is stable at air to approx. 1000°C, under reduced conditions or inert gases it can be used up to 1800°C.

Refractory materials on boron nitride base are available in the form of powders, hot isostatic pressed shaped parts and as suspensions  (boron-nitride-coatings) for coating by dipping, brushing or spraying.

Cubic boron nitride, also called borazon, is a hard material of high microhardness and used for grinding applications.


This page in German - Diese Seite in Deutsch
© 2004 Büro für angewandte Mineralogie · Dr. Stephan Rudolph · D-47918 Tönisvorst
These recommendations are believed to be correct. However, no guarantee of their accuracy is given. Therefore, purchasers shall make their own tests to determine suitability for their use. These products are offered for industrial and related uses (e.g. research and development) only. However the user must take the necessary precautions appropriate for products containing chemicals. This description does not imply the absence of any patents, the responsibility whatsoever solely rests with the user.