Quartz glass is characterized by its outstanding purity and unique properties. One of its interesting properties is its ability to transmit UV radiation.
In this article, we will examine the UV transmittance of fused silica and what applications this property makes possible.
What are the properties of quartz glass?
Quartz glass has a high thermal shock resistance and chemical resistance. These properties make it a preferred material in many high-tech industries.
However, one of the most remarkable properties of fused silica is its ability to transmit light in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum . It is also characterized by a low refractive index, which makes it ideal for optical applications.
UV transmittance compared to conventional glass
Conventional types of glass, which are often used in windows and other everyday applications, block UV rays and therefore protect against harmful UV radiation. This is beneficial for everyday use as it protects against skin damage and material wear.
Quartz glass, on the other hand, is used specifically in areas where the transmission of UV light is desirable. This property makes quartz glass particularly valuable in applications that rely on UV radiation.
Quartz glass can transmit UV rays in the range from around 200 nm to longer wavelengths in the visible spectrum.
Applications in the UV range
The ability of quartz glass to transmit UV rays opens up a wide range of possible applications. Here are a few examples:
1. medical technology:
In medical technology, quartz glass is used for applications that require UV radiation, such as in sterilization devices. UV light is used to destroy germs and bacteria, which is of great importance in medical research and practice.
2. semiconductor manufacturing:
In the semiconductor industry, quartz glass plays an important role in UV photolithography, a process used to manufacture microprocessors and other electronic components. Here, UV light is used to create precise patterns on silicon wafers.
3. optical instruments:
Quartz glass is used in optical instruments and lenses that need to transmit UV light. This is particularly important in scientific applications where accurate measurements and observations in the UV range are required.
4. UV lamps and light sources:
Quartz glass is also used in the production of UV lamps and light sources, which are used in various industrial and scientific applications.
Fused silica and fused quartz
Fused silica and fused quartz are two terms that are often used interchangeably to describe quartz glass.
The UV transmittance of fused silica and fused quartz differs slightly due to their manufacturing methods and purity levels, although both materials are made of pure silicon dioxide (SiO2).
Fused silica
Fused silica is known for its excellent UV transmittance, especially in the deep UV range. It can transmit UV radiation up to a wavelength of around 200 nm,
Due to the chemical manufacturing process (flame hydrolysis) and the extremely high purity of the material, there are fewer impurities that could impair UV transmission.
It is therefore preferably used in high-end UV applications that require precise UV transmittance. Examples include UV lithography and the semiconductor industry. Fused silica is also used in laser technology and optical instruments.
Fused Quartz
Fused quartz also offers good UV transmittance, but the transmittance in the deep UV range can be slightly lower than that of fused silica.
As fused quartz is produced by melting natural quartz , there may be minor impurities in the material that could minimally affect UV transmission.
It is used in industrial applications and in laboratory equipment where a slightly lower purity can be tolerated but good UV transmission is still required.
Advantages of the UV transmittance of quartz glass
The UV transmittance of quartz glass offers numerous advantages:
✔️ High transmission in the UV range: Quartz glass offers high transmission in the UV range, making it ideal for applications that require efficient and precise light transmission.
✔️ Stability at high temperatures: Quartz glass retains its UV transmittance even at high temperatures, making it particularly useful for applications that require thermal stability.
✔️ Chemical resistance: The chemical resistance of quartz glass ensures that it can be used in aggressive environments without impairing its optical properties.
GVB GmbH: Your partner for quartz glass
Quartz glass is not only an extremely temperature-resistant and chemically resistant material, it also offers exceptional UV permeability. This property makes it an irreplaceable material in many industries, from medical technology to semiconductor production and optics.
With GVB, you can be confident that you will receive quartz glass of the highest quality. Our range of quartz glass products has been specially developed for demanding applications.
This makes our quartz glass the ideal choice for customers looking for reliable, high-performance materials.
Contact us today to find out more about our quartz glass products and services.
