Our benchtop muffle furnace (Thermo Scientific Thermolyne, model F48055-60) is important for the solid-state synthesis of inorganic materials. Students use this furnace in both Advanced Synthesis Laboratory (CHM 380) as well as in Independent Study (CHM 500/501). The programmable furnace has heating and cooling segment capabilities as well as an inlet for gas flow. Coupled with our hydraulic press for making powder pellets, students have synthesized materials with interesting electronic, magnetic, and/or optical properties such as superconductors, perovskites, spinels, and pyrochlores using this high temperature furnace.
