Kuupboornitriid

Kuupboornitriid, also known as cubic boron nitride (c-BN), is an extremely hard and refractory material. It is a synthetic compound composed of boron and nitrogen atoms arranged in a crystal structure similar to diamond. This structure gives c-BN its exceptional hardness, second only to diamond itself. It also possesses high thermal conductivity and electrical insulating properties, making it useful in various demanding applications.

The synthesis of cubic boron nitride typically involves high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) methods, often using catalysts to facilitate the transformation of other boron nitride polymorphs into the cubic phase. Due to the extreme conditions required for its production, c-BN is significantly more expensive than many other superhard materials.

Cubic boron nitride finds its primary use as an abrasive and cutting tool material. Its hardness allows it to machine difficult-to-cut materials such as hardened steels, superalloys, and ceramics, which are often unworkable with conventional tools. It is also employed in applications requiring wear resistance, such as bearings, coatings, and in electronic components where its insulating properties are beneficial. Research continues into developing more efficient synthesis methods and exploring new applications for this remarkable material.