Green silicon carbide (SiC) is a high-performance abrasive and refractory material with a unique set of properties that make it suitable for demanding applications across various industries.
Properties of Green silicon carbide:
High Hardness: Mohs hardness of ~9.5, second only to diamond and boron carbide.
Sharp and Brittle Crystals: Its grains fracture to form new, sharp edges, providing excellent “self-sharpening” cutting ability.
High Thermal Conductivity: Efficiently dissipates heat.
Thermal Shock Resistance: Can withstand rapid temperature changes without cracking.
Chemical Inertness: Resists attack by acids and alkalis.
Advantages of Using Green Silicon Carbide for Marble lapping
–Extreme Cutting Speed (Initially): Its sharp, hard grains will remove material from marble very aggressively in the beginning.
–Smooth Finish (Theoretically): When used in very fine grits for polishing, it can potentially produce a high-gloss finish because of its ability to create fine scratches.
Comparison with Black Silicon Carbide
Property | Green Silicon Carbide | Black Silicon Carbide |
---|---|---|
Purity | >99% SiC | >98% SiC |
Hardness | Slightly harder, more brittle | Very hard, slightly tougher |
Grain Shape | Sharper, more fractured crystals | Blockier, less sharp crystals |
Cost | Higher | Lower |
Primary Use | Precision grinding of hard, brittle materials (carbide, ceramic, glass). Lapping & Polishing. | General purpose grinding of lower tensile strength metals (cast iron, aluminum, bronze |