Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) has developed a simple and economical method for producing lanthanum hexaboride powder, which is used in the production of cathodes for electron microscopes, spacecraft engines, lasers and powerful electronic devices.
The new method of producing lanthanum hexaboride is several times cheaper, faster and less energy-intensive compared to traditional methods. Currently, there is no industrial production of lanthanum hexaboride in Russia.
The material was synthesized in a vacuum-free arc reactor: the graphite electrodes of the reactor created an arc discharge, around which a gaseous environment of carbon oxides was formed — they prevented the oxidation of the synthesized material. During the experiment, scientists regulated the current and the duration of the arc discharge. After each cycle, the resulting powder was examined by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy.
Lanthanum hexaboride has a high melting point, hardness, mechanical strength and thermal stability. These characteristics make it a promising material for various optical and dielectric devices, which opens up new possibilities for its use in high technologies.
The synthesis does not require a large amount of equipment, takes place in one stage and takes several times less time compared to analogues. Since it does not require additional procedures for cleaning the powder from impurities. This is especially important for further scaling of the technology.
Earlier www1.ru reported that a model for creating new rocket fuel was developed at TPU.
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