Boron Carbide

Name:
Boron Carbide
Detailed information:

M Formula:	B4C
Properties:
Hard, black crystals. D 2.6, Mohs hardness 9.3, mp 2350C, bp 3500C. Soluble in fused alkali; insoluble in water and acids. High capture cross-section for thermal neutrons.
Derivation:
Heating boron oxide with carbon in an electric furnace.
Available forms:
Powder, crystals, rods, fibers, whiskers.
Hazard:
Avoid inhalation of dust or particles.
Use:
Abrasive powder, abrasion resister and refractory, control rods in nuclear reactors, reinforcing agent in composites for military aircraft, and other special applications.

See Boral.