How does boron nitride differ from conventional graphite?
Although boron nitride in its solid form is often referred to as “white graphite” due to its similar microstructure, it differs significantly from conventional graphite in two key technical properties:
- Excellent electrical insulation: While conventional graphite is electrically conductive, boron nitride is an excellent electrical insulator. This property makes it indispensable for applications in which components must simultaneously dissipate heat efficiently and provide reliable electrical insulation (such as in semiconductor technology or high-temperature furnace construction).
- Significantly higher oxidation temperature: Unlike graphite, boron nitride has a much higher oxidation temperature. This means that it does not burn upon contact with oxygen until much higher temperatures are reached, making it significantly more resistant and stable in thermally extreme environments.
