The advantages of Schott Zerodur microcrystalline glass in optics

The advantages of Schott Zerodur microcrystalline glass in optics

In the field of precision optics, material selection plays a crucial role in determining the performance and reliability of optical systems. Among various materials used, Schott Zerodur microcrystalline glass stands out for its excellent performance and has become the preferred choice for a wide range of optical applications.

The unique properties of Schott Zerodur

Excellent thermal stability

A prominent feature of Schott Zerodur is its near zero coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). This characteristic means that Zerodur will experience minimal expansion or contraction during temperature changes, which is crucial for maintaining the dimensional stability of optical components. In high-precision optical systems, even small thermal expansion can lead to significant performance deviations. The thermal stability of Zerodur ensures that optical systems remain accurate and reliable over a wide temperature range, making it an ideal choice for applications that require extremely high precision.

High uniformity and low internal stress

Zerodur is known for its high uniformity, which refers to the uniform distribution of its material properties throughout the entire volume. This uniformity is crucial in optics, as inconsistency can lead to aberrations and distortions in the optical path. In addition, Zerodur has low internal stress, which means it will not deform or warp over time. This stability is particularly important for large optical components, such as telescope mirrors, where even slight deformation can seriously affect performance.

Excellent machinability and polishing ability

The processability of Zerodur is another significant advantage. It can be precisely machined and polished to an extremely smooth surface, which is crucial for high-quality optical components. Zerodur's ability to achieve sub nanometer surface roughness makes it suitable for applications that require high precision and minimal light scattering. In addition, its durability ensures that the polished surface maintains its quality for a long time, even under harsh conditions.

Practical applications in optics

Space Optics

Space missions require materials that can withstand extreme conditions and provide reliable performance over a long period of time. Zerodur has been used in various space optical applications, including instruments on satellite telescopes and space probes. Its ability to maintain dimensional stability in space vacuum and a wide temperature range makes it an ideal material for these applications. The robustness of Zerodur ensures that optical components work properly under harsh conditions of space travel.

Astronomical telescope

One of Zerodur's most prominent applications is in the construction of astronomical telescopes. The large reflector made by Zerodur is used in some of the world's most advanced telescopes, including the Very Large Telescope (VLT) and the Keck Observatory. The thermal stability of Zerodur ensures that the reflector does not distort with temperature fluctuations, consistently providing clear and accurate images of distant celestial bodies. The low internal stress and high uniformity of Zerodur are also crucial in these applications, as they help maintain the precise shape of the reflector over time.

Schott Zerodur microcrystalline glass provides a unique combination of properties, making it an indispensable material in the field of optics. Its excellent thermal stability, high uniformity, low internal stress, and excellent processability contribute to its widespread application in various high-precision optical applications. From astronomical telescopes and lithography systems to metrological instruments and space optics, Zerodur provides the reliability and performance required for cutting-edge optical technology. As the demand for accuracy and stability in optical systems continues to grow, Zerodur will undoubtedly continue to be at the forefront of material selection, thereby achieving further progress and innovation in the field of optics.