NEXCERA Ceramics

In the field of space optics and precision manufacturing, strict requirements are usually placed on materials, with thermal stability and lightweight being the core. NEXCERA, a cordierite-based (2MgO-2Al2O3-5SiO2) ultra-low expansion ceramic developed by Krosaki Harima Corporation of Japan, has unique zero expansion and lightweight properties. With these outstanding properties, it is widely used in high-end industrial and scientific research equipment.

Material properties

Ultr-low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE)

NEXCERA has a coefficient of thermal expansion of less than 0.03×10⁻⁶/℃ (at room temperature), which is almost comparable to ZERODUR and ULE. Compared with this type of glass, NEXCERA has better mechanical properties

High rigidity and lightweight

NEXCERAhas a Young's modulus of 130–143 GPa and a density of only 2.5–2.58 g/cm³, which is about 15% lighter than ULE, and a specific stiffness (E/ρ) of more than 50%, while its bending strength is 166–230 MPa, which is far superior to ULE and ZERODUR, allowing it to maintain structural integrity under extreme load conditions

Precision machining and surface polishing

The non-porous structure is suitable for mirror polishing, which can meet the needs of optical mirrors, and NEXCERA is also suitable for machining of complex geometric parts, which can meet high-demand applications

NEXCERA Ceramics Applications

Space optical system

It can replace traditional low-expansion glass to become the next generation of optical satellite mirror material for earth observation satellites and deep space telescopes. Its high rigidity and thermal stability are suitable for dealing with extreme temperature differences

Classic case: JAXA's 1.8-meter mirror substrate is designed with a closed-back structure, with a surface density of<40 kg/m², which is used to support high-resolution imaging tasks

Semiconductor manufacturing equipment

For example, core components such as wafer fixtures and suction cups. NEXCERA's low thermal deformation characteristics can well ensure positioning accuracy, while its lightweight characteristics can effectively reduce energy consumption and help energy-saving production

Precision measurement

Typical cases such as three-coordinate calibration parts

Summary

NEXCERA has proven its irreplaceability in extreme environments with its excellent performance and is expected to become a key material in the field of high-end manufacturing in the future. If you are looking for a NEXCERA manufacturer for your project recently, please feel free to contact us. We have professional equipment and rich experience to precisely machine NEXCERA Ceramics.