摘要 |
<p>Methods and apparatuses for obtaining silicon carbide whiskers on a continuous basis. Coked rice hulls or other carbon - and silicon bearing feed materials are continuously fed to a heating zone (18) in an unagitated state in order to promote whisker growth. The heating zone is continuously purged with an inert gas (22a), such as nitrogen or argon. The inert gas carries away gaseous impurities through vents (25) which are located directly in the heating zone, and prevents oxidation of the whiskers. The feed materials are dried in a dehydrating furnace (14) and are fed in a dry state therefrom to the heating zone in order to prevent erosion of the furnace walls.</p> |