Zerodur

Zerodur glass-ceramic with extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion

Zerodur glass-ceramic

Artificially produced glass-ceramics such as Zerodur were discovered in the mid-1950s. It is an inorganic, non-porous material with a key property, a low coefficient of thermal expansion and high thermal shock resistance, which is achieved by the distribution of crystalline structures in a glass matrix.

Thermodynamic exceptionally stable

When the temperature rises, the crystals contract while the glass matrix expands. It is therefore a material that does not change shape or size when the temperature changes, at least not within a limited temperature range.

The artificially produced glass ceramic Zerodur has established itself as an indispensable material in the manufacture of precision optics. With its extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion, Zerodur offers exceptional stability against temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for use in optical measurement systems, astronomical telescopes and space exploration missions. Discovered in the 1950s, the glass-ceramic is characterised by a unique combination of crystalline structures and a glass matrix that enables it to retain its shape and size even when exposed to temperature fluctuations. Due to its extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion, the material is particularly suitable for precision applications in optical instruments.

Precision optics and their requirements

In the world of precision optics, where every micrometre deviation can be critical, choosing the right material is crucial. Zerodur is valued for its excellent thermal properties and its ability to compensate for disruptive temperature fluctuations. The artificial glass ceramic is widely used in the manufacture of prisms and optical windows used in demanding environments. The homogeneity and low absorption of Zerodur in the visible and near infrared spectrum help to optimise the optical performance of measurement systems and improve the accuracy of scientific investigations.

Technical masterpieces with Zerodur

Zerodur enables precise measurements and analyses in various industrial manufacturing processes. Zerodur scales and measuring instruments are used in encoders for linear length measurements and in coordinate measuring machines to accurately measure the smallest distances. The thermal shock resistance of Zerodur is also important in aviation, where it is used in ring laser gyroscopes for inertial navigation systems. The robustness and long service life of these components contribute to a high-precision reference system that makes navigation in the air safer.

Zerodur precision optics made of glass ceramic

Zerodur optics

Zerodur is used as a substrate material for precision optics in optical measuring systems due to its exceptional thermal properties. Due to its extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion, this material is ideal for applications with disruptive temperature fluctuations. It is therefore used as an optical element in astronomical telescopes, precision measurement techniques and space missions.

Zerodur in astronomy and space research

Astronomy places special demands on optical materials, particularly in terms of thermal stability. Zerodur is used for telescope mirror substrates, as any temperature fluctuation can affect image quality. Its low thermal expansion and good mouldability make it ideal for adaptive optics and the production of large segmented mirrors, such as those found in the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile. In addition, Zerodur mirror substrates are perfect for long space missions due to their radiation resistance and fracture predictability, making them a favoured material for use in satellites and space telescopes.

Quality features of Zerodur

Zerodur is the first choice for high-tech applications in areas where precision and homogeneity are required. From astronomy and space exploration to industrial manufacturing and microelectronics, Zerodur enables the development and manufacture of optical components that meet the most demanding requirements. Pleiger Laseroptik uses the unique properties of Zerodur to meet the challenges of highly specialised fields with innovative solutions.