Introduction
Have you seen both fused silica and quartz glass? Many people remain confused and utter them in a single breath. But the fun fact is that they are day and night— different and unique, each having different features.
When you are navigating through technical applications and need to know the uses of each material, it is worth weighing in gold to understand the differences. However, this guide is a stunning one. We have left no stone unturned to help you evaluate the fused silica and quartz glass.
Let’s know both accurately.
What is Fused silica?
You might have heard of the crystals of silica. But it is 180 degrees opposite to the crystals.
Fused silica is a non-crystalline form of pure silica. Heating the pure silica at higher temperatures and then rapidly cooling it at lower temperatures can bring the fused structure of the silica that is more transparent and resistant to thermal shocks.
Unlike crystalline form, it is free of silica grains and offers a high clarity to all the materials.
What is Quartz glass?
Quartz glass is pure silica with crystals and helps construct many daily applications. There are two main types of quartz glass.
- Natural. It is mined from the earth and is natural in form. Therefore, it contains impurities.
- Synthetic. Instead of relying on earth resources, manufacturers are now making pure silica in the labs. This is a synthetic form.
Quartz glass is in direct competition with fused silica and has stood the test of time for centuries. Being a pure and natural form, it goes through processing to strengthen its features and make it more robust.
Key Differences Between Fused Silica and Quartz
Fused silica and quartz glass are king in their dwellings. Their diverse applications make them a game-changer.
But you should know the critical differences they share. We have made a list of set them side-by-side.
Structure
The structure is the secret behind the resilience, clarity, and robustness of glass structures. If the molecules are tightly packed, expect a rock-solid toughness.
Fused silica has a homogeneous structure that differentiates it from other materials. No crystals or grains appear on the surface.
Quartz, on the other hand, contains natural silicone dioxide crystals. When you closely run through the structure, there is a clear-cut grain shape look of this glass material.
Purity
Which do you prefer? 100% pure or some impure. Usually, whatever comes from the earth is always impure due to available different types of materials.
Fused silica is 100% pure silicon dioxide. Are you wondering why? Because of the processing and formation of fused glass with a high clarity.
Compared to it, the quartz glass is not 100% pure. It contains many impurities because of its natural extraction from the earth. If you want to ensure purity, the processing becomes a remarkable fact.
Thermal Expansion
Some materials expand on showing the heat. Some are resistant to heat and show some strength.
Let’s focus on our rivals first.
Fused silica has already fought the heat. When it runs through the processing, the heat resistance increases. Therefore, the heat expansion is pretty low compared to its competitors.
Quartz is a pure form. Therefore, it expands on the heat application and has a low resistance compared to its counterpart— fused silica. Because of this reason, quartz conversion to fused silica is a piece of cake.
Optical Clarity
Applications matter a lot. Not all appliances require you to bring their favorite optical clarity. Some work best with the lower clarity as well.
Suppose you are dealing with vision glasses or microscopes. Fused silica is the ideal choice, thanks to its high optical clarity. Moreover, it lacks grain, making it a homogeneous material with increased clarity.
It doesn’t have a high clarity if you compare the same with the quartz glass. It is because of the impurities it contains in its construction materials.
Mechanical Strength
If you use the glass in harsh applications, you must chew over the mechanical strength. Guess what? Both glass materials have different strengths.
For example, fused silica is more robust. But there is a problem— it is highly brittle also. You can easily break it into pieces. It is due to high purity without the inclusion of other materials.
On the other hand, quartz is also strong but less than fused silica. It is also prone to defects.
Manufacturing Costs
Manufacturing costs are the decision maker when you want to choose the one. However, both materials have a different price.
Fused silica has to be processed glass. Therefore, it is expensive to manufacture. On the other hand, quartz glass is natural and easy to filter out of the earth.
Applications
If you’re working on various glass materials, fused silica, and quartz can be of prime significance. They both deliver an extended performance and breathe life into various applications.
Let’s compare the applications of both materials.
Fused silica applications include:
- Optics & Lenses in high-precision lenses, telescopes, and laser systems.
- UV & IR Transmission for scientific instruments due to its broad spectral range.
- Semiconductors for photomasks and wafers.
- Aerospace & Defense in high-stress environments where thermal stability is key.
Quartz Glass has various applications, such as:
- Electronics in oscillators and resonators.
- Construction & Countertops acquire Quartz slabs for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Glass Manufacturing
- Piezoelectric Devices for sensors and timekeeping devices
| Property | Fused Silica | Quartz |
| Structure | Amorphous (non-crystalline) | Crystalline |
| Purity | Ultra-high purity (99.99% SiO₂) | Can contain impurities |
| Thermal Expansion | Extremely low | Moderate |
| Optical Clarity | High transparency (UV to IR) | Varies (natural may have inclusions) |
| Mechanical Strength | Strong, but more brittle | Harder but more prone to defects |
| Manufacturing Cost | Higher due to purity control | Lower for natural quartz; higher for synthetic |
Conclusion
Getting your eyes peeled when looking for the fused silica and quartz is the heart of your efforts. How do you do that?
Whether you are purchasing the fused silica or quartz glass, check the quality. Look at the purity and features, and better go with the real-time testing for the authentication of your products.
However, you can grab all the quality glass solutions in one place.
Wondering who offers the best glass? Look no further, as the Shenxun Glass Manufacturer is leading the charts. We burn the midnight oil to filter out the quality solutions. Grab the premium products right away!