Crucibles

Crucibles are heat-resistant laboratory vessels used for high-temperature applications including ignition, fusion, ashing, and gravimetric analysis. Choosing the right crucible material for your application is essential to ensure chemical compatibility and accurate results.

At Hurst Scientific, we supply crucibles to analytical, research, and teaching laboratories across Australia.

Types of Crucibles

Porcelain Crucibles Porcelain crucibles are the most common type used in general laboratory work. They are suitable for temperatures up to approximately 1100°C and are chemically resistant to most acids and bases at moderate temperatures. Commonly used for ashing organic samples and gravimetric determinations.

Silica (Quartz) Crucibles Silica crucibles offer excellent thermal shock resistance and can withstand temperatures up to approximately 1650°C. They are particularly useful for fusions and high-temperature work where porcelain may not be suitable.

Common Applications for Crucibles

• Loss on ignition (LOI) testing
• Gravimetric analysis
• Fusion for XRF sample preparation
• Ashing of organic and biological samples
• High-temperature chemical reactions and synthesis
• Teaching laboratories for quantitative analytical chemistry

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature can laboratory crucibles withstand? This depends on the material. Porcelain crucibles are typically rated to around 1100°C, while silica and platinum crucibles can withstand significantly higher temperatures. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific crucible type.

How do I clean a crucible after use? Allow the crucible to cool slowly to avoid thermal shock. Residues can often be removed by soaking in dilute acid or by gentle mechanical cleaning. Avoid rapid cooling or immersion of hot crucibles in water.

Should I use a crucible lid? Lids are recommended when heating samples that may spatter or where the sample needs to be protected from contamination during ignition. Matching lids are available for most standard crucible sizes.

Can I order crucibles in bulk? Yes. Hurst Scientific supplies crucibles in bulk to analytical laboratories, universities, and research institutions. Contact us for volume pricing.

Order Crucibles Online

Hurst Scientific is an Australian laboratory supplier delivering crucibles to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and nationwide. Browse our range below or contact our team for assistance selecting the right crucible for your application