Introduction

Quartz glass, also known as fused silica, is a high-purity form of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with exceptional thermal, optical, and chemical resistance. Unlike ordinary glass, it can withstand temperatures up to 1200°C while maintaining clarity and structural integrity. This article explores:

    • Key properties that make quartz glass unique

    • Industrial applications (semiconductors, optics, UV lighting)

    • Comparison with borosilicate glass

    • Maintenance tips to extend its lifespan

1. What is Quartz Glass?

Quartz glass is manufactured by melting natural quartz crystals or synthesizing high-purity silica. Two primary types exist:

    • Fused Quartz: Made from naturally occurring quartz, containing trace impurities.

    • Synthetic Fused Silica: Ultra-pure (99.999% SiO₂), used in precision optics and semiconductors.

2. Key Properties of Quartz Glass

✔️ Extreme Heat Resistance

    • Withstands temperatures up to 1200°C (compared to 500°C for borosilicate glass).

    • Ideal for furnace tubes, crucibles, and laser applications.

✔️ Low Thermal Expansion

    • Minimal expansion under heat, reducing risk of cracking.

    • Critical for space telescopes and high-precision instruments.

✔️ Optical Clarity

    • Transmits 90%+ of UV and infrared light (ordinary glass blocks UV).

    • Used in UV lamps, lenses, and prisms.

✔️ Chemical Inertness

    • Resists acids (except hydrofluoric acid) and corrosive gases.

    • Safe for laboratory equipment and chemical reactors.

3. Top Applications of Quartz Glass

🔬 Semiconductors

Uses: wafer carriers, CVD reaction chambers

Advantages: high temperature resistance, no pollution

🔍 Optics

Uses: lenses, laser components

Advantages: high UV transmittance

💡 Lighting

Uses: UV sterilization lamps, halogen lamps

Advantages: transmittance > 90%

🧪 Laboratories

Uses: beakers, cuvettes

Advantages: acid and alkali corrosion resistance

🚀 Aerospace

Uses: satellite observation windows, thermal shielding layers

Advantages: low thermal expansion

4. Quartz Glass vs. Borosilicate Glass

🔥 High temperature resistance

Quartz glass: 1200°C

Borosilicate glass: 500°C

⚡ Thermal shock stability

Quartz glass: Excellent (no cracking when heated or cooled suddenly)

Borosilicate glass: Good

☀️ UV transmittance

Quartz glass: >90%

Borosilicate glass: <50%

💰 Cost

Quartz glass: High

Borosilicate glass: Economical

🏆 Best application scenarios

Quartz glass: Semiconductors, optics, high temperature environments

Borosilicate glass: Conventional laboratory utensils

→ When to Choose Quartz Glass?

    • Need UV/IR transmission (e.g., UV sterilization).

    • Extreme heat exposure (e.g., semiconductor fabrication).

5. How to Clean & Maintain Quartz Glass

    • Do: Use deionized water, isopropyl alcohol, or mild detergents.

    • Avoid: Hydrofluoric acid (HF) and abrasive cleaners.

    • Storage: Keep in a dry, scratch-free environment.

Conclusion

Quartz glass is unmatched for high-temperature stability, optical clarity, and chemical resistance. Whether you’re in semiconductors, lighting, or R&D, selecting the right grade ensures optimal performance.

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