Carborundum is the trade name for silicon carbide, a compound widely recognized for its incredible hardness and thermal resistance. It’s used in industries ranging from abrasives to electronics.
This durable material resembles a black or green crystal and is engineered for high-performance scenarios where conventional materials fail.
Carborundum was accidentally discovered in 1891 by Edward Goodrich Acheson while experimenting with electric furnaces to produce synthetic diamonds. Instead, he created extremely hard SiC crystals, revolutionizing the abrasive industry.
The formula is SiC, consisting of one atom of silicon and one atom of carbon. It forms a binary compound with strong covalent bonds and a crystalline nature.
Each silicon atom is tetrahedrally bonded to four carbon atoms and vice versa, forming a robust 3D lattice. This configuration contributes to SiC’s strength and heat resistance.
Carborundum has either a cubic (zinc blende) or hexagonal crystal structure, depending on atomic stacking. These formations provide high melting points and exceptional durability.
It appears dark, shiny, and iridescent. With a Mohs hardness of 9.5, it’s used in cutting, grinding, and polishing tools. It’s also corrosion-resistant and chemically stable.
Produced mainly via the Acheson process, where a mix of silica (SiO₂) and carbon is heated to ~2000°C in an electric resistance furnace to form SiC and CO.
Mohs hardness of 9.5; melting point ~2730°C. Ideal for furnaces, armor plating, and cutting tools.
Excellent heat conduction makes it suitable for thermal management systems and heat sinks.
Carborundum acts as a semiconductor, used in:
Yes, they are the same material. "Carborundum" is the trade name; "Silicon Carbide" is the chemical name.
Often confused with corundum (Al₂O₃), but they have different compositions and applications.
The Acheson process is electricity-heavy, contributing to its carbon footprint depending on energy source.
SiC power devices enhance solar inverters and EVs with higher efficiency and performance.
Nanostructured and 3D-printed SiC are being developed for aerospace and defense applications.
Look for shiny, black or greenish crystals. Harder than most common materials, with metallic luster.
Inhalation of SiC dust can cause respiratory irritation or long-term issues like silicosis.
SiC – silicon carbide.
Mostly synthetic, though natural moissanite exists.
In abrasives, semiconductors, ceramics, and defense tools.
9.5 on the Mohs scale.
Yes, as a semiconductor.
Not in solid form, but dust can be hazardous if inhaled.
Carborundum (SiC) offers extreme hardness, high thermal resistance, and unique electronic properties. Its formula and structure make it valuable in a variety of modern applications.
With rising demands for efficient, high-performance materials, carborundum is positioned to remain at the forefront of materials science and advanced manufacturing.
Tags: Black Silicon Carbide, White Fused Alumina, Brown Fused Alumina, Pink Fused Alumina, Black Fused Alumina
