Mechanical Applications
Utilizing the high-temperature resistance, thermal shock resistance, and adjustable thermal expansion properties of glass-ceramics, various materials meeting mechanical requirements can be manufactured. Taking advantage of the machinability and directional orientation of mica, high-strength glass-ceramics with machinable properties can be prepared. As mechanical materials, glass-ceramics are widely used in pistons, rotating blades, and cookware, and can also be used as structural materials in aircraft, rockets, and satellites.
Optical Applications
Low-expansion and zero-expansion glass-ceramics are insensitive to temperature changes and can be used in applications where temperature variations are required but dimensional stability is demanded, such as in the housings of telescopes and lasers. Using low-expansion lithium-based glass-ceramics in fiber optic connectors, compared to zirconium oxide materials, offers a better match in terms of thermal expansion coefficient and hardness with quartz glass fibers, is easier to precision machine, and exhibits good environmental stability.
