Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: eric2011 on 23/08/2022 15:15:17

Title: What are the uses of these corundum crystals
Post by: eric2011 on 23/08/2022 15:15:17

Hi guys.

If you make synthetic corundum crystals with an electric arc welder and make synthetic rubies as shown in the image below, what will be its uses in industrial? who or what kind of people will buy them? I mean what industries  will want them?

Title: Re: What are the uses of these corundum crystals
Post by: eric2011 on 23/08/2022 15:16:51

This is the image

Title: Re: What are the uses of these corundum crystals
Post by: Bored chemist on 23/08/2022 16:28:31

Why do you suppose that any industry would want them?
They are just "to show it can be done".

Commercial synthetic rubies look like red glass.
Synthetic sapphires look like glass.

The ones I saw were used as high pressure non-return valves.
https://www.industrialjewels.com/ball-valve-and-seat-for-hplc/

Title: Re: What are the uses of these corundum crystals
Post by: evan_au on 24/08/2022 00:21:17

Corundum is pretty hard (9 on Moh's hardness scale), so it is useful as an abrasive.

But you ideally want crystals with sharp edges, not smooth, rounded droplets.