To laypeople, there may seem to be very few types of glass, since most glass looks “the same” in appearance. However, for professionals in the glass industry, there are countless varieties of glass — so many that I am not even sure I could list them all completely.
It is called quartz glass because it is made by melting various types of pure natural quartz (such as common crystal and quartz sand). The word “pure” is key here. we will discuss the many characteristics of quartz glass as bellow.
1. High Purity
As mentioned earlier, quartz is chemically silicon dioxide (SiO₂), which is also the main component of many other types of glass.
2. High Temperature Resistance
Quartz glass is widely used in many scientific research applications precisely because of its excellent heat resistance. Generally, its continuous operating temperature ranges from 1100℃ to 1200℃. For short term use, it can even withstand temperatures as high as 1400℃.
3. Good Thermal Shock Resistance
This is due to its very low coefficient of linear thermal expansion — only 1/10 to 1/20 that of ordinary glass — giving it excellent thermal shock resistance.
4. Excellent Optical Properties
Its optical performance is mainly reflected in its high light transmittance, as well as strong transmittance in the ultraviolet and infrared regions.
5. Strong Acid Resistance
Except for hydrofluoric acid and hot phosphoric acid above 300℃,quartz glass exhibits excellent acid resistance. It is highly resistant to sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, neutral salts, and other chemicals.