Glass-ceramic article
Abstract
Abstract This invention relates to the production of hard, high-modulus glass-ceramic articles having compositions within the MgO-Al2O3B2O3-SiO2 field nucleated with a combination of TiO2 and ZrO2 wherein the principal crystal phases are alpha-quartz and sapphirine. Where such articles are contacted with a source of lithium ions at elevated temperatures, an exchange of lithium ions for magnesium ions on a two-Li -for-one Mg 2basis takes place within the crystal structures resulting in the development of a surface layer wherein the primary crystal phase is a lithium-stuffed beta-quartz solid solution, also sometimes termed beta-eucryptite solid solution. This phenomenon causes the development of compressive stresses within the ion exchanged surface layer as the articles are cooled below the exchange temperature leading to a marked improvement in the mechanical strength of the articles.
Inventors
- 👤 George H Beall
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 5References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1978-03-24 | 1978-09-23 | 1979-03-25 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1982-03-24 | 1982-09-23 | 1983-03-25 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1986-03-24 | 1986-09-23 | 1987-03-25 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |