Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: eric2011 on 26/08/2015 15:43:58

Title: How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form
Post by: eric2011 on 26/08/2015 15:43:58

Hello

I would like to know How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form so that it will be easier for me to melt it with a acetylene oxygen torch. When I blow it when it is in powdered form, it spatter all over the place thats why I want it to be in a solod form.

BR

Title: Re: How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form
Post by: chiralSPO on 26/08/2015 16:04:29

You might try wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil. The foil will oxidize of course, but will not contaminate your sample. If the jet from your torch is not too powerful, it should stay together as it heats up and begins to melt.

Title: Re: How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form
Post by: Bored chemist on 26/08/2015 19:30:59

This is the "traditional" way to do it.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verneuil_process
but I don't think it will help you much.

Title: Re: How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form
Post by: eric2011 on 27/08/2015 17:46:09

Thanks. If I want to reduce the melting point in this verneuil proces,  what are some fluxes can I use?

Title: Re: How to turn Aluminum Oxide powder into a solid form
Post by: chiralSPO on 04/09/2015 16:18:03

Molten cryolite is used to dissolve aluminum oxide for electrolysis to produce aluminum metal. Perhaps this could work for you too? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryolite
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hall%E2%80%93H%C3%A9roult_process