Glass-ceramic
Glass-ceramics have a characteristic manufacturing process and a unique set of properties. Combining the best aspects of glass and ceramic, they represent a new class of materials. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of lithium-aluminum-silicate (LAS) glass-ceramics can be tailored to nearly zero.
Precise properties carefully controlled
Glass-ceramics are processed in two production steps: glass melting, including hot forming, and ceramization. The resulting material offers unique properties, such as near-zero expansion over a wide temperature range. The manufacturing process requires precise temperature management for outstanding homogeneity and tight control of the exact specifications.
A unique success story for more than 50 years
SCHOTT has been manufacturing and developing glass-ceramics for over 50 years. In that time, the material has opened up new possibilities for engineers and designers all over the world – and in space – by providing materials with unique sets of properties. Their applications range from home appliances, machinery and plant manufacturing, architecture, lithography and metrology to astronomy.
Tough, strong and esthetic
The outstanding feature of LAS glass-ceramics is their near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion, which makes them highly resistant to extreme temperatures, as well as thermal shock. Combining this with high homogeneity, strong chemical resistance, tailored optical properties (transparency, translucency, opaqueness), and design possibilities, results in a material that adds the esthetics of glass to a wide range of applications.
Near-zero thermal expansion
A partially crystalline structure results in the coefficient of thermal expansion being close to zero over a wide range of application temperatures.
Usable under extreme conditions
Able to withstand harsh environments, whether on Earth or in space, in dry or humid conditions, under pressure or in a vacuum.
Stable at high temperatures
Able to withstand temperatures up to 950 °C.
High chemical resistance
Chemically resistant to acids, bases and other chemical influences.
Related products
A broad range of glass-ceramics that serve a variety of functions: CERAN® is for cooking, ROBAX® for fireplaces, ZERODUR® for astronomy and space, metrology, and lithography, PYRAN® Platinum for fire protection, and NEXTREMA® and sealing glass-ceramics for technical applications. Find out which one is right for you.
