WO1992014576A1 - Production plasmatique de carbures ceramiques ultrafins - Google Patents
Production plasmatique de carbures ceramiques ultrafins Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1992014576A1 WO1992014576A1 PCT/US1992/001064 US9201064W WO9214576A1 WO 1992014576 A1 WO1992014576 A1 WO 1992014576A1 US 9201064 W US9201064 W US 9201064W WO 9214576 A1 WO9214576 A1 WO 9214576A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- reactor
- reactants
- temperature
- zone
- reaction
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 15
- 150000001247 metal acetylides Chemical class 0.000 title claims abstract description 12
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 title description 9
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 118
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 64
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 58
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 40
- 239000000376 reactant Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 35
- XKRFYHLGVUSROY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Argon Chemical compound [Ar] XKRFYHLGVUSROY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 30
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 24
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- 238000010791 quenching Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 230000000171 quenching effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 229910052786 argon Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 229910052734 helium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000001307 helium Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N helium atom Chemical compound [He] SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000012159 carrier gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 229910010271 silicon carbide Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 53
- HBMJWWWQQXIZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N silicon carbide Chemical compound [Si+]#[C-] HBMJWWWQQXIZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 52
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 claims description 42
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims description 29
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 28
- 229910002804 graphite Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000010439 graphite Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000005070 sampling Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000008016 vaporization Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- MCMNRKCIXSYSNV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zirconium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Zr]=O MCMNRKCIXSYSNV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052580 B4C Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chromium Chemical compound [Cr] VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- INAHAJYZKVIDIZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N boron carbide Chemical compound B12B3B4C32B41 INAHAJYZKVIDIZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000010942 ceramic carbide Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- MTPVUVINMAGMJL-UHFFFAOYSA-N trimethyl(1,1,2,2,2-pentafluoroethyl)silane Chemical compound C[Si](C)(C)C(F)(F)C(F)(F)F MTPVUVINMAGMJL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 claims 3
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 claims 2
- GWEVSGVZZGPLCZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Titan oxide Chemical compound O=[Ti]=O GWEVSGVZZGPLCZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000003786 synthesis reaction Methods 0.000 abstract description 5
- JKWMSGQKBLHBQQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N diboron trioxide Chemical compound O=BOB=O JKWMSGQKBLHBQQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 abstract description 4
- 229910052810 boron oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 abstract description 3
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000003638 chemical reducing agent Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000004408 titanium dioxide Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- LIVNPJMFVYWSIS-UHFFFAOYSA-N silicon monoxide Chemical compound [Si-]#[O+] LIVNPJMFVYWSIS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 57
- 210000002381 plasma Anatomy 0.000 description 34
- 229910052681 coesite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 15
- 229910052906 cristobalite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 15
- 229910052682 stishovite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 15
- 229910052905 tridymite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 15
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 14
- HSFWRNGVRCDJHI-UHFFFAOYSA-N alpha-acetylene Natural products C#C HSFWRNGVRCDJHI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 10
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 10
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 9
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 9
- XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicon Chemical compound [Si] XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 229910002092 carbon dioxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 7
- 229910052710 silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 239000010703 silicon Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000012512 characterization method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 125000002534 ethynyl group Chemical group [H]C#C* 0.000 description 5
- 238000002474 experimental method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 5
- KRHYYFGTRYWZRS-UHFFFAOYSA-N Fluorane Chemical compound F KRHYYFGTRYWZRS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910000619 316 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000498 cooling water Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000011835 investigation Methods 0.000 description 3
- GRYLNZFGIOXLOG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nitric acid Chemical class O[N+]([O-])=O GRYLNZFGIOXLOG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000001569 carbon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910002091 carbon monoxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000007596 consolidation process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004320 controlled atmosphere Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 2
- 229910052739 hydrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000012239 silicon dioxide Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000005245 sintering Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005979 thermal decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012932 thermodynamic analysis Methods 0.000 description 2
- OGIDPMRJRNCKJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N titanium oxide Inorganic materials [Ti]=O OGIDPMRJRNCKJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910011255 B2O3 Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Boron Chemical compound [B] ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon monoxide Chemical compound [O+]#[C-] UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- QPLDLSVMHZLSFG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper oxide Chemical compound [Cu]=O QPLDLSVMHZLSFG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000005751 Copper oxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- UFHFLCQGNIYNRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Hydrogen Chemical compound [H][H] UFHFLCQGNIYNRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000784 Nomex Polymers 0.000 description 1
- BLRPTPMANUNPDV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silane Chemical compound [SiH4] BLRPTPMANUNPDV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000002441 X-ray diffraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003082 abrasive agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- SXFQCTMHFJARRW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acetylene;methane Chemical compound C.C#C SXFQCTMHFJARRW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- AYJRCSIUFZENHW-UHFFFAOYSA-L barium carbonate Inorganic materials [Ba+2].[O-]C([O-])=O AYJRCSIUFZENHW-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- KGBXLFKZBHKPEV-UHFFFAOYSA-N boric acid Chemical compound OB(O)O KGBXLFKZBHKPEV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004327 boric acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004364 calculation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007795 chemical reaction product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011217 control strategy Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910000431 copper oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000000354 decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003292 diminished effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003628 erosive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010419 fine particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004868 gas analysis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002920 hazardous waste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000001257 hydrogen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002386 leaching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001000 micrograph Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000004767 nitrides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000004763 nomex Substances 0.000 description 1
- QGLKJKCYBOYXKC-UHFFFAOYSA-N nonaoxidotritungsten Chemical compound O=[W]1(=O)O[W](=O)(=O)O[W](=O)(=O)O1 QGLKJKCYBOYXKC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000006911 nucleation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010899 nucleation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001590 oxidative effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004451 qualitative analysis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004445 quantitative analysis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035484 reaction time Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910000077 silane Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011863 silicon-based powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010891 toxic waste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- UONOETXJSWQNOL-UHFFFAOYSA-N tungsten carbide Chemical compound [W+]#[C-] UONOETXJSWQNOL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910001930 tungsten oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- CMPGARWFYBADJI-UHFFFAOYSA-L tungstic acid Chemical compound O[W](O)(=O)=O CMPGARWFYBADJI-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J19/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J19/08—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor
- B01J19/087—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor employing electric or magnetic energy
- B01J19/088—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor employing electric or magnetic energy giving rise to electric discharges
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B32/00—Carbon; Compounds thereof
- C01B32/90—Carbides
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B32/00—Carbon; Compounds thereof
- C01B32/90—Carbides
- C01B32/914—Carbides of single elements
- C01B32/956—Silicon carbide
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B32/00—Carbon; Compounds thereof
- C01B32/90—Carbides
- C01B32/914—Carbides of single elements
- C01B32/956—Silicon carbide
- C01B32/963—Preparation from compounds containing silicon
- C01B32/97—Preparation from SiO or SiO2
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B32/00—Carbon; Compounds thereof
- C01B32/90—Carbides
- C01B32/914—Carbides of single elements
- C01B32/991—Boron carbide
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J2219/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J2219/00049—Controlling or regulating processes
- B01J2219/00243—Mathematical modelling
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J2219/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J2219/08—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor
- B01J2219/0871—Heating or cooling of the reactor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J2219/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J2219/08—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor
- B01J2219/0873—Materials to be treated
- B01J2219/0881—Two or more materials
- B01J2219/0886—Gas-solid
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01J—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROCESSES, e.g. CATALYSIS OR COLLOID CHEMISTRY; THEIR RELEVANT APPARATUS
- B01J2219/00—Chemical, physical or physico-chemical processes in general; Their relevant apparatus
- B01J2219/08—Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiation; Apparatus therefor
- B01J2219/0894—Processes carried out in the presence of a plasma
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01P—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF SOLID INORGANIC COMPOUNDS
- C01P2004/00—Particle morphology
- C01P2004/01—Particle morphology depicted by an image
- C01P2004/03—Particle morphology depicted by an image obtained by SEM
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01P—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF SOLID INORGANIC COMPOUNDS
- C01P2004/00—Particle morphology
- C01P2004/51—Particles with a specific particle size distribution
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01P—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF SOLID INORGANIC COMPOUNDS
- C01P2004/00—Particle morphology
- C01P2004/60—Particles characterised by their size
- C01P2004/62—Submicrometer sized, i.e. from 0.1-1 micrometer
Definitions
- This invention relates to a method and apparatus for the production of ceramic carbides to be used in the development and manufacturing of high value materials.
- the method and apparatus comprise a plasma torch, a reaction chamber and a rapid quenching chamber.
- the relatively new trend in silicon carbide formation is to make it by thermal plasma processes.
- the high temperatures available in the plasma increase the reaction kinetics by several orders of magnitude and fast quenching rates produce very small particles at high conversion rates, thus providing a number of advantages over older methods for producing very fine, submicron powders of SiC.
- the gas phase synthesis conducted in a pure and controlled atmosphere at a high temperature gives the powder which is produced properties which are very desirable in subsequent fabrication. These properties include high sphericity, a small diameter and a narrow size distribution.
- Plasma processing has a wide range of potential applications, ranging from coating of thin layers on substrates to the destruction of toxic wastes.
- One of the many promising areas of plasma processing is the production of ultra-fine (submicron size) powders of high-value materials (such as carbides and nitrides). Powders produced in a pure and controlled atmosphere may be essential for subsequent fabrication of advanced materials.
- Silicon carbide has many eminent properties, such as: high refractoriness, high oxidation resistance and high hardness. It also has a thermal conductivity comparable to the metals, and its thermal expansion coefficient is relatively low compared with other ceramics. Because of these properties, silicon carbide can be effectively used for high temperature mechanical applications. The products obtained by the present invention can be employed for those purposes for which ceramic carbides are presently used.
- SiC powders A fundamental prerequisite for producing such structural ceramics depends on the availability of relatively inexpensive, high purity, reproducibly- sinterable SiC powders.
- One of the more important problems in the application of SiC is its poor sinterability, which is due to strong covalent bonds between molecules.
- the silicon carbide powder In order to enhance sintering characteristics, the silicon carbide powder must have a uniform particle size distribution and a submicron mean particle size.
- SiC powder there have been a number of investigations concerning the production of SiC powder in plasma reactors.
- the reactants used e.g., silane
- These reactants are used because they are easily vaporized and therefore easily converted.
- Silicon carbide has been produced using inexpensive reactants, such as silica and hydrocarbons, with an RF plasma.
- RF plasmas may present a thermal efficiency problem when scaled up to an industrial size.
- SiO 2 (s) + 3C (s) SiC (s) + 2CO (g)
- the reaction is very slow even under plasma reactor conditions; so the reaction rates must be increased by the formation of gaseous intermediaries.
- the reactants for the SiC formation are silica and methane. When silica is exposed to high temperature (>2839°C), it disassociates into silicon monoxide and oxygen, i.e.,
- SiO 2 (s) SiO(g) + O(g)
- methane When methane is exposed to high temperature, it decomposes into different species depending upon the temperature.
- the important reactions for the methane decomposition are as follows:
- the formation of acetylene by the thermal decomposition of methane is explained by the theory of free radicals and has been observed by a number of investigators, including the work reported here.
- the primary species formed when methane is exposed to high temperatures are: Hj, C 2 H 2 , H and C.
- the purpose of the present invention is to design, build and operate a plasma reactor to synthesize ultra-fine SiC in a non-transferred arc plasma system using inexpensive reactants such as silica and methane.
- a new method and apparatus for producing pure, ultra-fine uniform sized ceramic carbides has been developed which comprises a non-transferred arc plasma torch as a heat source, a tubular reactor as a reaction chamber, and a quench chamber for rapidly quenching products to minimize their re-oxidation.
- the process uses the high temperatures of the plasma torch to vaporize oxides and to make gaseous suboxides of SiO 2 , B 2 O 3 and TiO 2 (such as silica, Boron oxide and Titanium oxide) and to thermally decompose methane (to form acetylene, carbon and hydrogen).
- the tubular reactor allows sufficient residence time (under the proper reaction conditions of temperature and partial pressures) for the formation of the ceramic carbides.
- the powders are collected, treated by roasting to remove excess carbon, and leached to remove excess metals and oxides.
- the product is pure, ultra-fine (0.2-0.4 micron) ceramic carbide.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a plasma reactor system incorporating the reactor of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the reactor according to the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a graph of typical temperature profiles at the outlet end of the reaction chamber.
- FIG. 4 is a graph of the average temperature profile in the reactor.
- FIG. 5 is a size distribution bar chart of the silica powder used in the system.
- FIG. 6 is a bar chart showing SiC yield as a function of the methane/silica molar ratio.
- HG. 7 is a photomicrograph of an SiC powder produced in the system shown in FIG. 1.
- FIG. 8 is a bar chart of the particle size distribution of SiC powder.
- FIG. 9 is a photograph of the plasma reactor system according to the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic of the model for the laminar flow reactor zone.
- FIG. 11 is the free energy in kcal/mole versus temperature in kelvin for temperatures above 3000 degrees kelvin.
- FIG. 12 is the free energy in kcal/mole versus temperature in kelvin in the temperature range above 2000 degrees kelvin but below 3000 degrees kelvin.
- FIG. 13 is the free energy in kcal/mole versus temperature in kelvin for temperatures below 2000 degrees kelvin.
- Other features would include the formation of pure, fine tungsten carbide powders using tungstic acid or tungsten oxide and methane; formation of pure, fine titanium carbide powders using titanium oxide and methane; thermal decomposition of methane to form acetylene and carbon; formation of fine silicon monoxide powder using silica; formation of fine silicon powder; formation of fine boron powder; and destruction of hazardous waste.
- the reactor is divided into three zones. These zones are based on temperatures.
- the first zone 1 is the plasma jet or vaporization zone, where the temperature is considered to be above 3000°K.
- the second zone 3 is the reaction zone, where the temperature is between 2000°K and 3000°K.
- the third zone 5 is the re-oxidation or quenching zone, where the temperature is less than 2000°K.
- SiC + 2CO SiO 2 + 3C (22)
- the free energy diagram for the above reactions is shown in FIG. 13.
- This region can be considered a re-oxidation zone. If the quenching is sufficiently rapid (>10 4o k sec) and the gaseous atmosphere remains reducing, the re-oxidation reactions do not happen to any appreciable extent.
- FIG. 1 A photograph of the system is shown in FIG. 9.
- the central part of the system comprises a tubular, water cooled, stainless steel reactor 7 constructed of 316 stainless steel; the reactor 7 design accommodates the high temperatures associated with the plasma torch 17.
- Theoretical calculations (see page 14, lines 8-12) are used to determine the temperature and velocity profiles expected in the reactor 7.
- the appropriate reactor diameter is estimated and the condensating rate control strategies of the particles present in the stream determined (the relationship between the internal diameter 57 of the reactor and the energy density at various power levels of the plasma torch 17 are taken into account).
- the time to complete the reaction is calculated using assumed kinetic equations. Having calculated the estimated reaction time, the length of the reaction chamber can be determined which will provide the reactants enough residence time in the reaction chamber to react (elutriation velocities for particles of different sizes were taken into account in determining the reactor 7 length).
- a graphite tube 9 serves as the refractory lining of the reactor 7, protecting it from the high temperatures associated with the plasma torch. Because the graphite lining has high heat conductivity, to minimize heat loss it is necessary to insulate the graphite tube 9 with graphite felt 11, or zirconia felt but because of their low thermal conductivity and high refractoriness, several layers (5-6) of felt must be applied. The felt is placed between the graphite refractory 61 lining and the reactor inner wall 59.
- the collection chamber 15 acts as a quenching chamber for the incoming gases, both by expansion and intensive water cooling.
- the chamber 15 resembles a rectangular box with a periphery water-cooled jacket.
- the collection chamber is constructed of 316 stainless steel.
- water is circulated as a coolant.
- the incoming reactants encounter an intensively water-cooled quenching barrier which minimizes or prevents re- oxidization.
- a copper cooling coil is provided oppositely disposed from the collection chamber entrance which provides further cooling to the incoming reactants. Once the gas stream passes the copper coil and exits the collection chamber, it has cooled to a temperature of approximately 150-160°C. Teflon seals are provided on the cover to avoid any leakage from the collection chamber 5.
- the reactor 7 and the quenching section 15 are shown in FIG. 2.
- a non-transferred arc plasma torch 17 (Model PT50 from Plasma Energy
- the front electrode connected to the negative terminal, serves as the cathode and the rear electrode, connected to the positive terminal, serves as the anode. Both electrodes are constructed of a copper chrome alloy and are intensively water cooled. A mixture of argon 19 and helium 21 is used as the plasma gas, the flow rates of the individual gases being adjusted and recorded separately.
- the torch is attached to a 96 KW D.C. power supply.
- the plasma torch 17 is attached to the front portion 23 of the reactor 7 using a stainless steel coupling 25 in combination with an injection ring or other feeding arrangement which is used to feed the reactants; the connecting system is fabricated from 316 stainless steel.
- the stainless steel coupler serves to prevent leakage around the insertion area and permits easy removal of the plasma torch 17 for inspection or replacement. Insulating felt is used between the front portion 23 and the injection ring to minimize the heat losses from the front section.
- a Metco powder feeder 29 (Model 3MP) comprising a hopper for powder storage, an adjustable speed rotating wheel and a vibrating system to prevent clogging feeds the powders combined with the gas stream into the reactor 7 through a copper tube.
- a graphite disc Using a graphite disc, reactants are radially fed into the reaction chamber 1 at three points. The reactants pass through the reactor, enter the collection chamber, are cooled, and subsequently exit the collection chamber; the exit gas temperature is approximately 150-160°C.
- the exiting gas stream contains fine particles, it is necessary to pass the stream through a stainless steel tubular filter 31.
- Various filtering materials can be used but preferably 0.5 micron size "Nomex" cloth filter with a folded periphery filter bag. Maximum efficiency was obtained using filter bags with as large of surface area as possible.
- the off gases are passed over a burner 33 for further combustion. This ensures full burning of the outgoing gases and converts the carbon monoxide present in the gases to carbon dioxide; the hazardous effects of the outgoing gases are minimized.
- the gases are then vented to a stack. Alternatively, the off gases can be recycled to increase the overall efficiency of the reactor, decrease production costs and reduce the hazardous effects of the off gases.
- the reactor chamber includes multiple ports 37, 39, 41, 43 along the reactor 7 and the collection chamber. These ports are used to take samples of the gases and the solid species as they transition the reactor and collection chamber, and to monitor temperatures at various intervals in the reactor and the collection chamber; both "C” and "K” type thermocouples are used. (A two color pyrometer was used to measure the temperature of graphite lining (9) in the reaction zone. Temperatures in the first half of the reactor could not be measured by thermocouples because of the high temperatures associated with the plasma torch but could be estimated theoretically.)
- Each sampling line is mounted at different positions along the length of the reactor 7, each line comprising a 0.25 inch graphite tube inserted into the chamber, a microfilter, and a shut off valve.
- the lines are connected to a Varian gas chromatograph 45 (Model 3300) via a vacuum pump.
- the filter separates the solid species from the gaseous stream.
- the gas chromatograph removes the samples using a vacuum pump placed at the end of the sampling lines and has an air actuated auto-sampling valve which takes samples at specified times.
- the information from the system is interfaced with a data acquisition system.
- the data system comprises an IBM personal computer (Model 30) coupled with a "Metrabyte" analog and digital conversion boards.
- the conversion boards are connected to the thermocouple, flow sensors, pressure transducers and power supply parameters.
- silica powder and technical grade (about 97% minimum purity) methane 28 are the primary reactants for the synthesis of ultra- fine silicon carbide in the plasma reactor.
- the silica powder size distribution is shown in FIG. 5 and primarily it comprises 6 to 40 micron particles.
- the methane 28 is combined with the silica powder at the powder feeder and used as the carrier gas along the powder feeder and to feed the powder into the reaction chamber.
- a mixture of methane and argon can be used as the carrier gas where argon is simply added to maintain a fixed flow rate of the carrier gas. Flow rates for both gases are monitored using a mass flow meter and maintained at a delivery pressure for both gases of approximately 50 PSI.
- the silica powder is dried in an oven before each run to remove moisture and ensure proper feeding. Moisture in the system could disrupt the chemical balance of the system and induce clogging prior to the reactants entering the reaction chamber, thereby devoiding the system of all uniformity.
- the silica feed rate is maintained at about 5.0 g min.
- the plasma torch is operated using argon and helium as plasma gases filtered through a 15 micron filter.
- the plasma torch 17 is started with argon 19, but after about 10 minutes, helium 21 is added to enhance its power. Since helium has a higher ionization energy, the voltage across the electrodes is increased depending upon its flow rate and subsequently the power of the torch is increased.
- the argon and helium are maintained at a delivery pressure of 130 PSI at the source, however, due to many restrictions in the gas lines, the delivery pressure drops to 30 PSI at the torch.
- the flow rates for the argon and helium range between 3.5 to 4.0 SCFM (STP).
- STP SCFM
- Temperatures are measured in the second section 3 of the reactor 7 using "C” type thermocouples.
- Example temperature profiles at the end of the reaction chamber versus time are given in FIG. 3.
- Curve “A” is the centerline temperature at the discharge end of the reactor, while curves “B” and “C” are the temperatures at the half radius 49 and the wall 9, respectively. As shown in the figure, the temperatures rise sharply in the beginning; this is a result of pre ⁇ heating the reactor without any reactants. After some minutes, the reactor attains a thermal equilibrium at which point the feed is started into the reactor; this is represented in FIG. 3 as a sudden drop in temperature.
- the powders produced are analyzed by chemical and physical characterization. Chemical quantitative analysis is performed for all the species present in the product. Physical characterization includes size, mo ⁇ hology, and size distribution of the powder.
- Qualitative analysis of the powder produced is performed by x-ray diffraction at two stages: first, it is analyzed in the as-produced form, and second, it is analyzed after chemical treatment.
- Chemical treatment consists of roasting the powders in air followed by leaching with HF acid and then a mixture of HF and HNO 3 acids.
- the as-produced powder shows free carbon, silicon, silicon monoxide, silicon dioxide, and beta-silicon carbide.
- the chemically treated powder only shows beta-silicon carbide.
- Free carbon in the sample is determined by oxidizing the sample in a tube furnace at a temperature of 650°C. The sample is placed in a ceramic boat in the furnace. A pre-adjusted air stream is passed through the tube. All free carbon present in the sample is oxidized to CO 2 (using copper oxide wire in air). Carbon dioxide present in the outgoing gas stream is trapped by Ba(OH), solution which converts the CO 2 to BaC0 3 . The remaining solution is titrated with HC1 and the absorbed quantity of CO 2 is determined. Free Silicon and Silica
- silicon If free silicon is in amo ⁇ hous form, it will be dissolved in hydrofluoric acid. If the silicon is in metallic form, it will not be dissolved in HF, but it can be dissolved in a mixture of IHF + 3HNO 3 . Silicon monoxide is also soluble in HF + HN0 3 solution. Silica is soluble in HF acid.
- Samples are analyzed in two ways. First, a sample is roasted in the tube furnace to determine the free carbon and then it is treated with hydrofluoric acid and a mixture of hydrofluoric and nitric acids. The residue is pure silicon carbide. The solution after dissolution is analyzed for silicon content by atomic abso ⁇ tion (for the complete mass balance). A similar sample from the same experiment is analyzed in a reverse way. That is, the treatment with the acids comes first and then roasting is performed in the tube furnace.
- Powders produced from each experiment are studied for particle size and mo ⁇ hology using a scanning electron microscope.
- a photomicrograph of an SiC product sample is shown in FIG. 7. Most of the particles in the micrograph are 0.2-0.4 microns in size.
- Particle size distribution is also very important in the subsequent treatment of the powder.
- Coulter counter and Horiba particle analyzers are used to study the particle size distribution in this work.
- the size distribution of the silicon carbide powder from T-31 is shown in FIG. 8. It mainly consists of particles ranging in size from 0.2 to 0.4 micron. Reaction Mechanisms
- SiO(g) and Si(g) react with H ⁇ g) and C 2 H(g) to form SiC(s). These are gas-gas reactions and require the formation of critical nuclei.
- the yield of silicon carbide could be increased by extending this reaction zone.
- Models for the heat transfer and fluid flow in the reactor 7 have been developed and evaluated experimentally. The models assume steady state behavior and neglect the flame zone except as a heat and vaporization source.
- FIG. 10 A schematic of the model for the laminar flow reactor zone is presented in FIG. 10.
- An energy balance equation in dimensionless form is:
- Heat convected and radiated to the walls 51 of the reactor is equal to the heat taken away through the walls 51 by cooling water.
- it can be represented as follows:
- SiO(g) reacts with C 2 H 2 (g) to form SiC.
- concentration of SiO(g) and temperature act as the driving force for the reaction, assuming C 2 H 2 is in abundance.
- the model is the subject of the paper "Fundamentals of Silicon Carbide Synthesis in a Thermal Plasma," by P. R. Taylor and S. A. Pirzada. More detailed models, including heterogeneous kinetics and nucleation and growth kinetics, are the subject of further investigation.
- the powders that are being produced are suitable for ceramic application by consolidation and sintering.
- Carbide powders produced pursuant to the present invention can be employed in applications where prior silicon carbide powders, including abrasives, have been used. Nomenclature
- T w wall temperature (°K)
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Inorganic Chemistry (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Toxicology (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Carbon And Carbon Compounds (AREA)
Abstract
Appareil et procédé de synthèse de carbures céramiques ultrafins (inférieur au micron) dans un réacteur thermique à torches à plasma (7) à partir essentiellement de silice, d'oxyde de bore, de dioxyde de titane ou d'autres oxydes, comme sources de métal, et de métane comme réducteur. Une torche à plasma (17) fonctionnant à la fois avec de l'argon et de l'hélium comme un gaz plasmatiques et employant comme principal gaz porteur le méthane, est relié à un réacteur à plasma (7) pour fournir la chaleur nécessaire au déclenchement de la réaction. Une chambre collectrice (5) dotée d'un refroidissement intérieur et extérieur est reliée au réacteur pour refroidir les réactants. Le refroidissement de la torche (17), du réacteur (7) et la chambre collectrice (5) est réalisée par des serpentins, des déflecteurs et des chemises.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US65864991A | 1991-02-22 | 1991-02-22 | |
US658,649 | 1991-02-22 | ||
US07/782,790 US5182606A (en) | 1989-06-22 | 1991-11-15 | Image fixing apparatus |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO1992014576A1 true WO1992014576A1 (fr) | 1992-09-03 |
Family
ID=27097672
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US1992/001064 WO1992014576A1 (fr) | 1991-02-22 | 1992-02-14 | Production plasmatique de carbures ceramiques ultrafins |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
WO (1) | WO1992014576A1 (fr) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1996006700A3 (fr) * | 1994-08-25 | 1996-03-28 | Qqc Inc | Particules nanometriques et leurs utilisations |
WO2000010756A1 (fr) * | 1998-08-18 | 2000-03-02 | Noranda Inc. | Procede et systeme de plasma a arc transfere pour la production de poudres fines et ultra-fines |
FR2787676A1 (fr) * | 1998-12-18 | 2000-06-23 | Soudure Autogene Francaise | Piece d'usure pour torche de travail a l'arc realisee en cuivre allie |
SG111177A1 (en) * | 2004-02-28 | 2005-05-30 | Wira Kurnia | Fine particle powder production |
RU2359905C1 (ru) * | 2008-05-19 | 2009-06-27 | Государственное образовательное учреждение высшего профессионального образования "Сибирский государственный индустриальный университет" | Способ получения шихты для производства карбидокремниевой керамики твердофазным спеканием |
CN111867973A (zh) * | 2018-03-23 | 2020-10-30 | 日清工程株式会社 | 复合粒子及复合粒子的制造方法 |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3340020A (en) * | 1963-08-13 | 1967-09-05 | Ciba Ltd | Finely dispersed carbides and process for their production |
GB1093443A (en) * | 1965-02-15 | 1967-12-06 | British Titan Products | Silicon carbine |
USRE28570E (en) * | 1971-02-16 | 1975-10-14 | High temperature treatment of materials | |
USRE32908E (en) * | 1984-09-27 | 1989-04-18 | Regents Of The University Of Minnesota | Method of utilizing a plasma column |
-
1992
- 1992-02-14 WO PCT/US1992/001064 patent/WO1992014576A1/fr active Application Filing
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3340020A (en) * | 1963-08-13 | 1967-09-05 | Ciba Ltd | Finely dispersed carbides and process for their production |
GB1093443A (en) * | 1965-02-15 | 1967-12-06 | British Titan Products | Silicon carbine |
USRE28570E (en) * | 1971-02-16 | 1975-10-14 | High temperature treatment of materials | |
USRE32908E (en) * | 1984-09-27 | 1989-04-18 | Regents Of The University Of Minnesota | Method of utilizing a plasma column |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1996006700A3 (fr) * | 1994-08-25 | 1996-03-28 | Qqc Inc | Particules nanometriques et leurs utilisations |
WO2000010756A1 (fr) * | 1998-08-18 | 2000-03-02 | Noranda Inc. | Procede et systeme de plasma a arc transfere pour la production de poudres fines et ultra-fines |
FR2787676A1 (fr) * | 1998-12-18 | 2000-06-23 | Soudure Autogene Francaise | Piece d'usure pour torche de travail a l'arc realisee en cuivre allie |
SG111177A1 (en) * | 2004-02-28 | 2005-05-30 | Wira Kurnia | Fine particle powder production |
RU2359905C1 (ru) * | 2008-05-19 | 2009-06-27 | Государственное образовательное учреждение высшего профессионального образования "Сибирский государственный индустриальный университет" | Способ получения шихты для производства карбидокремниевой керамики твердофазным спеканием |
CN111867973A (zh) * | 2018-03-23 | 2020-10-30 | 日清工程株式会社 | 复合粒子及复合粒子的制造方法 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US5486675A (en) | Plasma production of ultra-fine ceramic carbides | |
JP4139435B2 (ja) | 高速冷却反応器及び方法 | |
EP0327401B1 (fr) | Dispositif et procédé de préparation des poudres céramiques fines et régulières | |
CA2581806C (fr) | Synthese plasmique de nanopoudres | |
US5073193A (en) | Method of collecting plasma synthesize ceramic powders | |
US5851507A (en) | Integrated thermal process for the continuous synthesis of nanoscale powders | |
DuFaux et al. | Nanoscale unagglomerated nonoxide particles from a sodium coflow flame | |
WO2008127377A2 (fr) | Production de particules de carbure métallique ultrafines et de grande pureté | |
US5194234A (en) | Method for producing uniform, fine boron-containing ceramic powders | |
Gitzhofer | Induction plasma synthesis of ultrafine SiC | |
WO1992014576A1 (fr) | Production plasmatique de carbures ceramiques ultrafins | |
US3232706A (en) | Method of making submicron size nitrides and carbides | |
Akashi | Progress in thermal plasma deposition of alloys and ceramic fine particles | |
Guo et al. | Effects of process parameters on ultrafine SiC synthesis using induction plasmas | |
JP2003049201A (ja) | 金属及び金属系化合物の球状粉末とその製造方法 | |
Sathiyamoorthy | Plasma spouted/fluidized bed for materials processing | |
Taylor et al. | An investigation of silicon carbide synthesis in a nontransferred arc thermal plasma reactor | |
Taylor et al. | Ceramic carbide powder synthesis in a non-transferred arc plasma flow reactor | |
WO1998009753A9 (fr) | Procede thermique integre et appareil permettant la synthese continue de poudres a l'echelle nanometrique | |
JPS5941772B2 (ja) | 超微粉合成炉 | |
WO1998009753A1 (fr) | Procede thermique integre et appareil permettant la synthese continue de poudres a l'echelle nanometrique | |
Pirzada | Silicon carbide synthesis and modeling in a nontransferred arc thermal plasmareactor | |
AU616950B2 (en) | Apparatus and method for producing uniform, fine boron-containing ceramic powders | |
JPS60251928A (ja) | 金属化合物超微粒子の製造方法 | |
Xu et al. | Synthesis of Ultrafine β-SiC Particles from SiOx (x= 0, 1, 2) Powders and C2H2 |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AK | Designated states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT AU BB BG BR CA CH DE DK ES FI GB HU JP KP KR LK LU MG MW NL NO RO RU SD SE US |
|
AL | Designated countries for regional patents |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT BE BF BJ CF CG CH CI CM DE DK ES FR GA GB GN GR IT LU MC ML MR NL SE SN TD TG |
|
DFPE | Request for preliminary examination filed prior to expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed before 20040101) | ||
REG | Reference to national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: 8642 |
|
122 | Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase | ||
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: CA |