Low Cost AlON For IR Window Applications

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to develop a transparent AlON with low cost and exceptional mechanical properties. The low cost AlON can be achieved by controlling the material synthesis, which reduces the particle size andenhances the uniformity of the starting materials. Increasing the sinterability and reducing the diffusion path can reduce the sintering time and sintering temperature significantly. Hence, both the raw material cost and the processing cost can bereduced significantly. Furthermore, the mechanical properties can be improved due to the smaller grain size compared to conventional processed AlON. The thermal shock capabilities of transparent polycrystalline ceramics can be enhanced when the grainsize is decreased to nanoscale. The transparent nanocomposite developed in this program can be used to replace translucent Al2O3 for the sodium and halogen lamp applications. It can also be used for IR missile domes, transparent armors, undersea submersibles, supermarket scanners,glass for Xerox copy machines and scanners, and optical lenses. This new material can have significant impact on the optical industry by replacing specialty glass and sapphire.