Composition & Structural Analysis of Materials

Composition and Structural Analysis of Apex and Foturan Glasses in comparison to Quartz

In this research, the composition of Apex and Foturan photodefinable glasses was analyzed using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis. The structural properties of the glass aterials are analyzed as well using Raman spectroscopy.

By: Khalid Tantawi

This research investigates optical and thermal behaviour of the two commercially- produced ApexTM and FoturanTM photosensitive glasses in relation to their composition.  Little is known about photodefinable glasses when compared to other glass families.  A composition analysis is performed on the two glasses using Rutherford Backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and UV spectroscopy.  Results of this research were published in the Joural of Materials Science in 2013. 

Cerium and silver were found to exist at higher concentrations in Foturan than in Apex glass. Difference in transmission in the 240-340 nm window is mainly attributed to the different concentrations of cerium and silver  in the glasses.  Infrared transmission in the range 2.7 – 5.0 µm is improved following an annealing process.  Structural stability over a different range of temperatures in the two photosensitive glasses is investigated, and is attributed to the silica content at the expense of lithium oxide.  Raman spectroscopy shows that the UV-exposed-then-baked photosensitive glass, results in the formation of a uniform crystalline-phase lithium metasilicate with a preponderantly Q2 species.

The following methods were used to find the composition and structure of Apex and Foturan photodefinable glasses:

• Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry

• X-Ray Diffraction analysis

• UV/Vis and IR Spectroscopy

• Raman Spectroscopy

• Differential Scanning Calorimetry

• Scanning Electron and optical Microscopy

Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) spectra of Apex and Foturan photosensitive glasses in comparison to quartz.