Case Study: Standard Platinum Crucible For Precision Research And Laboratory Applications

Introduction

In research and in laboratories a variety of crucibles are used, each designed for specific applications. The Standard Platinum Crucible is one option among these vessels. It is manufactured from high‐purity platinum and is used in several scientific tasks due to its defined properties. In this article we explain why and how this component is used in laboratories.

Figure 1. Laboratory apparatus

Understanding the Standard Platinum Crucible

A standard platinum crucible is a specialised laboratory vessel used in various research and laboratory applications. Platinum is noted for its chemical stability, high melting point (approximately 1 768 °C) and low reactivity with most chemicals. Consequently, platinum is chosen for crucible production, particularly when handling corrosive or reactive substances.

Figure 2. Platinum crucibles

Applications of Standard Platinum Crucibles in Research and Laboratories

Platinum crucibles are used in numerous processes in research and laboratory settings. Their properties allow for controlled heating and processing in a range of applications, as outlined below:

-Analytical Applications

Platinum crucibles are primarily used in analytical chemistry for measurements and sample preparation. They are employed for heating, melting or calcining samples, given that they minimise contamination.

These crucibles provide accurate results in procedures such as:

XRF Sample Preparation: In X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, the composition of a material is determined by measuring emitted X-rays. Platinum crucibles are used for sample preparation to minimise contamination and maintain sample integrity.

Ash Testing: For ash testing, the ash content of a sample is determined, typically in organic or mineral materials. Platinum crucibles are used to heat the sample so that organic matter combusts and an inorganic residue is left for analysis.

Wet Chemistry: In wet chemistry experiments, platinum crucibles are used for various chemical reactions and sample preparations. Their chemical inertness helps ensure that analyses and reactions are not adversely affected.

LOI Analyses (Loss on Ignition): LOI analyses determine the content of volatile components in a material. Platinum crucibles are used to heat the sample at defined temperatures so that volatile substances are expelled, thereby allowing weight loss to be quantified.

-Other Laboratory Uses

High-temperature Reactions: Platinum crucibles are used for high-temperature reactions, for example in melting processes during RFA analysis or for sample digestion in analytical chemistry. They are also used in thermal analysis procedures such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA).

Metallurgy and Materials Science: In metallurgy and materials science, these crucibles are used to determine the composition, melting points and other properties of various materials. They are utilised in experiments assessing alloys, ceramics and other high-temperature materials.

Precious Metal Analysis: Platinum crucibles are employed in the analysis of precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum. Their use minimises the risk of contamination during analysis and helps maintain result accuracy.

Sample Preparation: Platinum crucibles are used in sample preparation for chemical and pharmaceutical research where precise measurements and minimal contamination are required.

Melting and Fluxing: In geological research and analysis, platinum crucibles are used for melting rock and mineral samples with flux, thereby preparing them for subsequent analysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, standard platinum crucibles are essential tools in research and laboratories, given that they withstand high temperatures and corrosive substances. They are used in various scientific disciplines, including analytical chemistry, high-temperature reactions and precious metal analysis. Stanford Advanced Materials is a supplier of standard platinum crucibles. For further information please visit our homepage.