Glass

Quartz glass is a one-component glass (SiO2). It is one of the most valuable materials for both science and industry. There is a distinction between synthetic and natural quartz glass. Synthetic quartz glass is made from pure silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4) following the Flammpyrolyse-method. The raw material of quartz glass is a natural crystal mined from the earth as rock crystal or pegmatite quartz. The raw material is pulverized to a fine-particle granulate and melted to quartz glass in an oxy-hydrogen flame. Features: Good transmission behavior in ultra-violet, visible and infrared wavelengths High temperature endurance A low coefficient of thermal expansion Good thermal shock resistance Excellent electrical insulation High chemical purity A maximum operating temperature of 1100°C (permanently), or 1300°C (short-time) Uses: High-temperature processes (high temperature resistance) Semiconductor- and light-industry (purity) Optics (good light transmission in visible, UV and IF wavelengths) Laser technology Electronics and electro-technology (low conductivity, high penetration field strength, low dielectric loss factor) Chemistry and pharmaceutics (chemical resistance, not hygroscopic, chemical purity, thermal shock resistance)