The intelligent design of new materials isn't easy. Not only conceptually, but the conditions are often harsh and require specialized containers that will withstand those conditions. These alumina crucibles (and a boat) have been serving as the reaction vessels for a number of solid state reactions running in pure oxygen between 600-1200 degrees Celsius. As evidenced by some of the variation in color and texture, not all of them make it out of a reaction unscathed. These however, are the luckiest of my crucibles.