Is quartz glass brittle?

From a materials science perspective, quartz glass (also known as fused silica) is a high-purity silica glass. Compared to other common glasses, quartz glass has higher strength and better thermal stability.

High mechanical strength

Quartz glass excels in both compressive and tensile strength. While still brittle, its modulus of rupture is generally higher than that of traditional soda-lime glass.

Excellent thermal shock resistance

This is perhaps one of quartz glass's most significant advantages. Due to its extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion, it can withstand drastic temperature changes (such as rapid cooling from high temperatures) without easily breaking. This makes it an ideal high-temperature glass for applications such as high-temperature furnaces, lighting, and semiconductor manufacturing.

The relative nature of "fragility"

While quartz glass is stronger than ordinary glass, it is still glass and can still be brittle under certain conditions:

• Sharp impact: Like all glass, quartz glass is very sensitive to localized sharp impact or scratches. Even the slightest surface damage can, under stress, become a starting point for crack propagation, leading to fracture.
  
  
• Stress Concentration: Quartz products can be damaged by uneven stress or stress concentration points during processing or installation.
  
  
• Improper Use: Although quartz glass is heat-resistant, exposure to extreme temperatures above its softening point or contact with certain chemicals (such as hydrofluoric acid) can degrade its properties and increase the risk of breakage.
  
  

Applications of quartz glass

Due to its unique properties, particularly its high temperature resistance and high purity, quartz glass is widely used in the following fields:

• Semiconductor Industry: Used in the manufacture of furnace tubes, boats, and other components, which requires extremely high material purity.
  
  
• Optical Components: As an optical glass with excellent UV transmittance, it is used in the manufacture of prisms, lenses, and windows.
  
  
• Laboratory Equipment: Items such as quartz crucibles and beakers utilize its high-temperature and chemical resistance.
  
  

Correctly understanding and utilizing the properties of quartz glass can maximize its advantages and effectively avoid the risk of breakage caused by improper operation. Selecting high-quality quartz glass products and considering its brittle characteristics in the design can ensure its long-term stable and reliable operation.