Boron Nitride – BN, 10043-11-5

Boron Nitride (BN) is a compound consisting of boron and nitrogen atoms. It has various applications, including as a lubricant, insulator, and thermal conductor, due to its unique properties.

IUPAC NameBoron Nitride
Molecular FormulaBN
CAS Number10043-11-5
SynonymsBoron Nitride, Borazon, White Graphite, Cubic Boron Nitride, Boron Nitride
InChiInChI=1S/BN/c1-2

Boron Nitride Properties

Boron Nitride Formula

The formula of boron mononitride is BN. It consists of one boron atom (B) and one nitrogen atom (N). The ratio of boron to nitrogen in the compound is 1:1. The formula represents the simplest and most basic unit of boron mononitride, indicating the types and numbers of atoms present in the compound.

Boron Nitride Molar Mass

The molar mass of boron mononitride (BN) is calculated by adding the atomic masses of boron and nitrogen. Boron has an atomic mass of approximately 10.81 grams per mole, while nitrogen has an atomic mass of around 14.01 grams per mole. Adding these values together gives the molar mass of boron mononitride, which is approximately 24.82 grams per mole.

Boron Nitride Boiling Point

Boron mononitride has a high boiling point. The exact boiling point depends on the specific form of boron mononitride, as it exists in different crystal structures. However, in general, boron mononitride has a boiling point ranging from approximately 2,973 to 3,500 degrees Celsius. This high boiling point makes boron mononitride suitable for applications that involve high-temperature conditions.

Boron Nitride Melting Point

Boron mononitride has a high melting point, which is also influenced by its crystal structure. The melting point of boron mononitride ranges from around 2,200 to 3,000 degrees Celsius. This high melting point indicates the compound’s exceptional thermal stability and resistance to high temperatures, making it useful in various industries and applications.

Boron Nitride Density g/mL

The density of boron mononitride is typically around 2.1 to 2.3 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³). The exact density may vary depending on the specific form and purity of boron mononitride. Its relatively low density, combined with its high strength and thermal conductivity, makes it a valuable material for lightweight and heat-resistant applications.

Boron Nitride Molecular Weight

The molecular weight of boron mononitride (BN) is the sum of the atomic weights of its constituent elements. Boron has an atomic weight of approximately 10.81 atomic mass units (amu), while nitrogen has an atomic weight of around 14.01 amu. Adding these values gives a molecular weight of approximately 24.82 amu for boron mononitride.

Boron Nitride Structure

Boron Nitride

Boron mononitride exhibits different crystal structures, including hexagonal boron mononitride (h-BN) and cubic boron mononitride (c-BN). Hexagonal boron mononitride has a layered structure similar to graphite, while cubic boron mononitride has a diamond-like structure. These distinct structures give boron mononitride its unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity in c-BN and excellent electrical insulation in h-BN.

Boron Nitride Solubility

Boron mononitride is insoluble in water and most common solvents. It exhibits a high degree of chemical inertness, making it resistant to dissolution in various liquids. This property is advantageous for applications requiring materials with low reactivity and excellent stability. However, certain specialized solvents or extreme conditions may enable limited solubility or interaction with boron mononitride.

AppearanceWhite solid
Specific Gravity2.1 – 2.3 g/cm³
ColorWhite
OdorOdorless
Molar Mass24.82 g/mol
Density2.1 – 2.3 g/cm³
Melting Point2,200 – 3,000 °C
Boiling Point2,973 – 3,500 °C
Flash PointNot applicable
Water SolubilityInsoluble
SolubilityInsoluble in most common solvent
Vapour PressureNot applicable
Vapour DensityNot applicable
pKaNot applicable
pHNot applicable

Boron Nitride Safety and Hazards

Boron mononitride is generally considered safe to handle and use. It poses minimal health hazards, as it is non-toxic and non-reactive. However, certain precautions should be taken. Inhalation of boron mononitride dust or particles should be avoided, as it may cause respiratory irritation. Direct skin contact should also be minimized to prevent possible skin irritation. When working with boron mononitride in high-temperature applications, it is important to use appropriate protective equipment to prevent burns or thermal injuries. Overall, following standard safety practices, such as wearing gloves, goggles, and a dust mask, will help ensure safe handling and minimize any potential risks associated with boron mononitride.

Hazard SymbolsNone
Safety DescriptionNon-toxic and non-reactive. Take precautions to avoid inhalation of dust and minimize direct skin contact. Use appropriate protective equipment for high-temperature applications.
UN IDsNot applicable
HS Code2850.00.00
Hazard ClassNot classified
Packing GroupNot applicable
ToxicityNon-toxic

Boron Nitride Synthesis Methods

There are several methods for synthesizing boron mononitride, each with its own advantages and suitability for specific applications. One common method is the reaction between boron oxide (B2O3) and ammonia (NH3) at high temperatures. The reaction produces boron mononitride in solid form. Another method involves the reaction of boron halides, such as boron trichloride (BCl3) or boron tribromide (BBr3), with ammonia gas. This process yields boron mononitride as a solid product.

In chemical vapor deposition (CVD), vaporized precursor compounds containing boron and nitrogen undergo decomposition on a substrate at elevated temperatures. The decomposed species then recombine on the substrate surface, resulting in the synthesis of boron mononitride.

Another approach is the conversion of hexagonal boron mononitride (h-BN) into cubic boron mononitride (c-BN). The process of achieving this transformation involves performing high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) synthesis. Under extreme pressure and temperature conditions, h-BN undergoes a phase transition to form c-BN, which has a different crystal structure and properties.

Overall, these synthesis methods offer ways to produce boron mononitride in various forms, including powders, coatings, and bulk materials. The choice of method depends on factors such as desired product characteristics, scalability, and intended applications of boron mononitride.

Boron Nitride Uses

Boron mononitride (BN) finds application in various industries and fields due to its unique properties and versatility. Here are some uses of boron mononitride:

  • Lubricants: Boron mononitride serves as a solid lubricant, particularly in high-temperature environments that can cause traditional lubricants to deteriorate. It reduces friction and wear, thereby prolonging the lifespan of components.
  • Thermal management: BN is an excellent thermal conductor, making it useful in heat sinks, electronic devices, and high-power applications. It efficiently dissipates heat, preventing overheating and enhancing overall performance.
  • Insulators: Boron mononitride’s electrical insulation properties make it ideal for insulating materials in electronics, preventing electrical leakage and short circuits.
  • Ceramic materials: Advanced ceramic materials, such as crucibles, nozzles, and cutting tools, use BN for its high thermal stability and resistance to chemical reactions.
  • Mold release agent: BN coatings coat molds and surfaces, preventing sticking and improving the release of molded products.
  • Aerospace applications: Aerospace engineering utilizes BN for its lightweight nature, thermal management capabilities, and resistance to high temperatures.
  • Cosmetics: Cosmetic products, such as powders and creams, incorporate BN for its ability to impart a smooth texture and provide oil absorption properties.
  • Refractories: Refractory materials used in high-temperature environments, such as furnaces and kilns, incorporate BN due to its excellent thermal and chemical stability.
  • Semiconductors: BN serves as a substrate for growing semiconductors, leveraging its insulating properties and compatibility with electronic materials.
  • Additives: Various applications, including plastics, paints, and coatings, incorporate BN additives to enhance their thermal conductivity and lubricating properties.

These diverse applications demonstrate the wide-ranging utility of boron mononitride across multiple industries, leveraging its unique properties to enhance performance and functionality in various materials and products.

Questions:

Q: Is boron nitride piezoelectric?

A: No, boron mononitride is not piezoelectric.

Q: What is boron nitride?

A: Boron mononitride is a compound consisting of boron and nitrogen atoms, known for its excellent thermal and chemical stability.

Q: Will boron nitride bond with glass?

A: No, boron mononitride does not bond with glass.

Q: Is boron nitride a network solid?

A: Yes, boron mononitride is a network solid due to its covalent bonding between boron and nitrogen atoms, forming a three-dimensional lattice structure.

Q: If the boron nitride molecule, BN, were to form, what would its structure look like?

A: The boron mononitride molecule (BN) would have a linear structure, with a boron atom bonded to a nitrogen atom.

Q: What is hexagonal boron nitride?

A: Hexagonal boron mononitride (h-BN) is a crystalline form of boron nitride, consisting of stacked hexagonal layers similar to graphite. It has excellent electrical insulation and thermal conductivity.

Q: Is boron nitride a compound?

A: Yes, boron mononitride is a compound composed of boron and nitrogen atoms.

Q: Is boron nitride safe?

A: Boron mononitride is generally considered safe, as it is non-toxic and non-reactive. However, precautions should be taken to avoid inhalation of dust and minimize skin contact.

Q: What is boron nitride?

A: Boron mononitride is a compound with the chemical formula BN, consisting of boron and nitrogen atoms. It is known for its high thermal stability and a wide range of applications in various industries.

Q: What is the boron nitride dimer cohesive energy?

A: The cohesive energy of the boron nitride dimer refers to the amount of energy required to separate two boron mononitride molecules. The specific value may vary depending on the computational method and level of theory used for calculations.