What are the typical physical specifications for glassy carbon sheets? Unlock Superior Performance for Your Lab

In terms of physical specifications, glassy carbon sheets are typically available in standard thicknesses of 0.5mm, 1mm, 2mm, and 3mm. These sheets come in round, square, or rectangular forms with dimensions ranging from 5x5mm up to 100x100mm, and their surfaces can be polished, roughened, or coated to suit specific experimental needs.

While the physical dimensions are standardized, the true value of glassy carbon lies in its unique combination of properties. Understanding its thermal, chemical, and electrical characteristics is the key to leveraging it correctly in demanding scientific and industrial applications.

The Defining Properties of Glassy Carbon

Glassy carbon, also known as vitreous carbon, is a non-graphitizing, amorphous form of carbon. Its unique atomic structure gives it a powerful and distinct set of characteristics that separate it from other carbon forms like graphite or diamond.

Exceptional Thermal Stability

Glassy carbon demonstrates incredible resistance to high temperatures. It can withstand up to 3400°C in a vacuum or inert atmosphere, making it a superior choice for high-temperature crucibles, furnace components, and structural supports.

High Chemical Inertness

This material exhibits outstanding oxidation resistance and chemical stability. It is inert in a wide range of acidic, alkaline, and organic environments, ensuring reactions are not contaminated by the material itself.

Superior Electrical Conductivity

Its electrical conductivity is notably high, often compared to that of copper. This property, combined with its chemical inertness, makes it an ideal material for electrodes.

Mechanical Hardness and Strength

With a hardness that approaches that of a diamond, glassy carbon is extremely durable and resistant to wear. This provides a stable and robust surface for both mechanical and electrochemical applications.

Key Considerations for Application

The properties of glassy carbon directly influence how it is used. The choice of specification is not just about size, but about how its inherent nature serves the intended purpose.

The Premier Electrode Material

Glassy carbon is a dominant material for working electrodes in electrochemistry. Its wide potential window, high conductivity, and chemical stability allow for the precise study of electrochemical reactions without interference from the electrode itself.

Surface Modifiability

The ability to easily polish, roughen, or apply coatings to the surface is a critical feature. Researchers can create a fresh, reproducible surface by polishing or functionalize it with specific coatings for developing advanced sensors and catalysts.

Structural Integrity and Gas Tightness

Glassy carbon has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning it maintains its shape and size even with drastic temperature changes. Its structure also provides excellent gas tightness, a vital property for vacuum systems and sealed analytical cells.

Making the Right Choice for Your Application

Your final selection should be guided by the primary demands of your project.

• If your primary focus is electrochemical analysis: Select a standard thickness (e.g., 1mm or 2mm) and plan for surface polishing to ensure a clean, reproducible working area for your experiments.
• If your primary focus is high-temperature structural use: Choose a thicker sheet (e.g., 3mm) to maximize mechanical strength and thermal stability in furnaces or vacuum chambers.
• If your primary focus is advanced sensor development: A thinner sheet (e.g., 0.5mm or 1mm) may be suitable, but prioritize a supplier that offers well-defined options for surface roughening or coating.

Ultimately, aligning the material's inherent properties with your specific goal is the key to successful application.

Summary Table:

Property	Specification
Standard Thickness	0.5mm, 1mm, 2mm, 3mm
Standard Shape	Round, Square, Rectangular
Typical Dimensions	5x5mm up to 100x100mm
Surface Finish	Polished, Roughened, Coated
Key Advantage	High thermal stability, chemical inertness, & electrical conductivity

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Let us help you select the perfect specification for your project. Contact our experts today for a consultation and discover how KINTEK can enhance your research and production outcomes.