Abstract of the Offer
The conductive ceramic is an in-house (Almath Crucibles Ltd, UK) developed low-carbon-loaded alumina composite, produced through a slip casting process. It can be fabricated into various shapes, such as bars, rods, tubes, and crucibles. This material is highly efficient for rapid heating with minimal energy input, making it ideal for microwave heating applications. It is also suitable for electrical heating when equipped with appropriate electrical connections. In our tests, the ceramic achieved a temperature of 800°C within just 30 seconds using a microwave device (a frequency of 2450 MHz and an output of 650-700 W) in an air environment. This rapid heating and cooling capability opens up unique opportunities for materials processing and testing in both academic and industrial settings, such as enabling air quenching and preventing the growth of polycrystalline grains.
Description
The resistivity of this conductive ceramic ranges from 20 to 40 Ω·cm. It can reach temperatures of up to 800°C in air within 30 seconds using microwave heating. The ceramic can also be heated through an electrical approach. For microwave heating, the ceramic products can be placed directly in a microwave chamber, and with an appropriate frequency input, they heat up within seconds. Once the microwave input is stopped, the products begin to cool down rapidly. For electrical heating, the products need to be prepared with proper electrical connections—such as conductive wires or pastes—and connected to a power supply. When current is applied, the ceramic heats up. This material's low energy requirement, along with its rapid heating and cooling capabilities, makes it ideal for applications like serving as a container to hold and heat special specimens.
Advantages and Innovations
Conductive ceramics can be heated in a microwave and reach 800°C in air within seconds, using a microwave frequency of 2450 MHz and an output of 650-700 W. Unlike traditional heating methods, where heating elements generate heat that is transferred to a ceramic crucible via convection before reaching the tested specimens, this conductive ceramic minimises heat loss through direct microwave or electrical heating. This leads to a more efficient heating process and reduces overall energy consumption. Additionally, the conductive ceramic exhibits superior thermal shock resistance compared to traditional insulating ceramics, allowing for rapid heating and cooling. This capability makes it suitable for more extreme and specialised applications in both academic research and industry.
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