Calcium Hexaboride - Uses

Uses

Calcium hexaboride is used in the manufacturing of boron-alloyed steel and as a deoxidation agent in production of oxygen-free copper. The latter results in higher conductivity than conventionally phosphorus-deoxidized copper owing to the low solubility of boron in copper. CaB₆ can also serve as a high temperature material, surface protection, abrasives, tools, and wear resistant material.

CaB₆ is highly conductive, has low work function, and thus can be used as a cathode material. When used at elevated temperature, calcium hexaboride will oxidize degrading its properties and shortening its usable lifespan.

CaB₆ is also a promising candidate for n-type thermoelectric materials, because its power factor is larger than or comparable to that of common thermoelectric materials Bi₂Te₃ and PbTe.

CaB also can be used as an antioxidant in carbon bonded refractories.