What is fused silica?

Fused Silica

Fused silica, also known as synthetic quartz, is a form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It is produced by the high-temperature fusion of high-purity silica sand in an electric arc furnace. This process yields a glass with very low thermal expansion, excellent optical qualities, and exceptional chemical purity.

Key Properties

  • Very low coefficient of thermal expansion
  • High thermal shock resistance
  • Excellent optical transmission from ultraviolet to infrared
  • High chemical purity
  • Good electrical insulation properties
  • High radiation resistance

Applications

Fused silica is widely used in high-technology applications due to its unique properties. Some of its applications include:

  • Optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and windows
  • Semiconductor manufacturing equipment
  • UV lighting systems
  • Telecommunication devices
  • High-precision laboratory equipment

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of fused silica involves the melting of high-purity silica sand in an electric arc furnace. The molten silica is then cooled and solidified without crystallization, forming a non-crystalline (amorphous) glass. This process ensures the material's high purity and optical clarity.

Comparison with Other Materials

Fused silica is often compared to other optical materials such as borosilicate glass and crystalline quartz. It stands out due to its superior thermal stability, optical transparency, and chemical resistance, making it the preferred choice for many high-performance applications.

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