Fused quartz, also known as fused silica, is a high-purity form of glass that is produced by melting crystalline quartz and then cooling it rapidly. The fused quartz industry revolves around the manufacturing and applications of products made from fused quartz. Here are some key aspects of the fused quartz industry
Manufacturing Process
Fused quartz is typically produced through the process of melting natural crystalline quartz at very high temperatures (over 1,700 degrees Celsius) and then rapidly cooling it. The resulting material has excellent thermal, mechanical, and optical properties
Applications
Fused quartz finds applications in a wide range of industries due to its unique properties:
Semiconductor Industry: Used for manufacturing high-purity crucibles, trays, and other components in semiconductor production.
Optics: Employed in the production of lenses, prisms, and windows for its excellent optical clarity and thermal stability.
Laboratory Equipment: Used for manufacturing chemical and heat-resistant laboratory equipment like crucibles, beakers, and glassware.
Lighting: Fused quartz is used in high-intensity discharge lamps and halogen lamps due to its ability to withstand high temperatures.
Chemical and Thermal Resistance
Fused quartz exhibits excellent resistance to chemical corrosion and high temperatures. This makes it suitable for applications in harsh environments, such as chemical processing and high-temperature manufacturing.