Title:  Boron Nitride 
CAS Registry Number:  10043-11-5 
Molecular Formula:  BN 
Molecular Weight:  24.82 
Percent Composition:  B 43.56%, N 56.43% 
Literature References:  Prepd by igniting compds of boron with compds of nitrogen:  Taylor, US 2855316 (1958 to Carborundum Co.).  Reviews:  Giardini, Bur. Mines Inf. Circ. No. 7664, 13 pp (1953); K. Niedenzu, J. W. Dawson, Boron-Nitrogen Compounds (Academic Press, New York, 1965) pp 147-153. 
Properties:  Crystals with hexagonal, graphite lattice is most common form.  Borazon, cubic crystalline modification, is probably the hardest substance known.  There exists also an amorphous modification.  mp 3000°.  Begins to sublime at a temp slightly below 3000°.  Begins to dissociate in vacuo at about 2700°.  The chemical behavior of BN is dependent on the method of prepn.  Not attacked by mineral acids, water; in general resistant to chemical attack.  Hot concd alkali cleaves boron-nitrogen bond.  Oxidation in air begins above 1200°.  See Niedenzu, Dawson, loc. cit. 
Melting point:  mp 3000° 
Use:  Manuf of alloys; in semiconductors, nuclear reactors, lubricants.   |