Fused silica and quartz are closely related but not exactly the same.
Fused silica, also known as synthetic fused quartz, is a manufactured material made from high-purity silica sand, resulting in a translucent appearance.
Quartz, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring crystalline mineral composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2).
5 Key Differences Explained
1. Manufacture and Composition
Fused Silica: It is produced by melting high-purity silica sand, either electrically or using gas/oxygen flames.
This process transforms the crystalline structure of silica into a vitreous (glass-like) state, which is why it is also referred to as vitreous silica.
The high purity of the starting material ensures that fused silica retains excellent chemical purity and electrical insulation qualities.
Quartz: Quartz is a naturally occurring mineral found abundantly in the earth's crust.
It has a crystalline structure and is composed of silicon dioxide.
Unlike fused silica, quartz is not man-made and can vary in purity depending on its geological formation.
2. Properties and Applications
Fused Silica: Due to its very low coefficient of thermal expansion and resistance to high temperatures, fused silica is ideal for applications such as precision mirror substrates, thermocouple protection tubes, and in the ultraviolet transmission optics.
It is also used in semiconductor manufacturing and as a sputtering target in microelectronics.
Quartz: Quartz, both natural and synthetic, is valued for its hardness, transparency, and piezoelectric properties.
It is used in watches, electronics, and as a component in various industrial processes.
The natural form is also used in gemstones and decorative items.
3. Comparison with Glass
Both fused silica and quartz contain at least 99% silicon dioxide, which is significantly higher than the silicon dioxide content in glass (up to 80%).
This high purity contributes to their superior thermal and optical properties compared to glass.
Additionally, unlike glass, fused silica and quartz do not typically contain lead, which is often added to glass to enhance its optical properties.
4. Chemical Purity
Fused Silica: The high purity of fused silica ensures excellent chemical purity and electrical insulation qualities.
Quartz: The purity of quartz can vary depending on its geological formation.
5. Thermal Expansion
Fused Silica: It has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, making it ideal for applications requiring stability under temperature changes.
Quartz: While quartz also has good thermal properties, the exact coefficient can vary based on its natural formation.
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