Bill Aycock on thu 11 apr 96
At 06:39 PM 4/10/96 EDT, Charles Gaudi wrote:
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>I don't want to put a damper on this idea but, talk to a chemist or
>industrial hygenist before you do this. The burning graphite can emit some
>nasty toxic chemicals.
>
This comes under the heading of misunderstanding through the bastardization
of the language. Graphite is a pure element, just carbon in an organised
form-- organise it a little more and its diamond.
The stuff you refer to as "graphite" used in structures is really "Graphite
reinforced composites", meaning you bind graphite fibers into a plastic
matrix and get enhanced strength. Same as "fiberglass", but with other fibers.
The stuff that burns with bad fumes is the plastic part, not the graphite part.
I was wondering (when I saw Lowells post) what the actual content of the
material in the drums was. It could be real graphite, or it could be scrap
(machining residue?) of the stuff Gaudi was worried about.
Lowell- there are lots of coal mines within 50 miles of you, try that, its
(almost) pure carbon and is pretty safe to burn.
Bill, on Persimmon Hill, waiting for a REAL spring.
LOWELL BAKER on thu 11 apr 96
It seems I'v e started something. The graphite in question is, or
seems to be very pure. it is the waste from machinine graphite
blocks into high temp crucibles and other testing equipment in the
old Bureau of Mines here on the campus of the University of Alabama.
We have scores a single rod 12"X 10' solid graphite. It is floor
sweepings so there is some dirt and a little oil but mostly the black
stuff. After all this discussion I went back and did some research.
Graphite is pure carbon. I believe that one would have to take the
normal precautions against CO but I see little else that could be a
real problem.
I will let you all know what comes of this. I am not a saggar firer
but I have a grad student who is interested in the process.
It's Honors Week at the University of Alabama. The most perfect time
of the year. Azalias and Dogwoods that are nearly perfect. Not the
first mosquito in site. I put on a coat and tie tomorrow and pass out
awards.
Lowell
| |
|
