Silicon carbide (SiC) is a compound made up of silicon and carbon. It is commonly used as an abrasive material, as well as in applications such as electronics, semiconductors, and refractories (materials used to build high-temperature devices). It is also used in the production of advanced ceramics, such as those used in bulletproof vests and other protective gear. Additionally, SiC is used in the manufacturing of heating elements for industrial furnaces and in nuclear power plant applications due to its extreme heat resistance.