What is transparent aluminum and how it can be used in construction and decoration

AlON, or aluminum oxynitride, is another name for transparent aluminum. It is an extraordinary substance that has captivated the interest of scientists and enthusiasts alike. This sophisticated ceramic is a one-of-a-kind combination of strength and beauty since it is transparent as well. Transparent aluminum, in contrast to conventional glass, is resistant to harsh environments and high impacts, which allows for a wide range of applications in numerous industries.

Transparent aluminum has exciting potential in the construction industry. Because of its strength and resilience, it’s a great choice for windows and facades in buildings that need to withstand inclement weather or even potential threats. Imagine skyscrapers with windows made of transparent aluminum that offer superior protection against potential security breaches and natural disasters, in addition to offering breathtaking views.

Transparent aluminum has equally amazing aesthetic potential. Elegant interior spaces can be created with it thanks to its sleek appearance and clarity. It can be incorporated by architects and designers into furniture, walls, and partitions to create sleek, contemporary designs that allow natural light to flow freely while still being extremely strong and safe.

Transparent aluminum has potential as decorative elements in addition to its aesthetics and construction. Because of its special qualities, it can be used to create visually arresting and remarkably durable features like translucent sculptures or artistic installations. This material’s unique combination of toughness and transparency can turn ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones.

Transparent aluminum production and use are becoming more practical and common as technology develops. This invention pushes the envelope of what is feasible in contemporary architecture and construction while also improving the aesthetically pleasing and functional aspects of buildings. Transparent aluminum has the potential to completely change the way we think about materials by providing a glimpse of a time when strength and beauty can coexist peacefully.

What is transparent aluminum

When aluminum, nitrogen, and chromium are connected, aluminum oxinitride is formed, which is known as transparent aluminum (Alon). This substance appears to be a transparent, robust, and solid ceramic mass. In the visible, half-wave, and ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, alon optical transparency reaches 80%.

Crucial! Because transparent aluminum is thought to be the hardest transparent ceramic material, it finds application in a variety of industries, including construction and maintenance.

These things are constructed of this substance:

• glass with explosive, bulletproof properties;
• shock -resistant windows;
• various pipes and rods;
• slabs;
• Illuminators.

The main properties of the material

The development of new materials has created many opportunities in the fields of production, science, and building. Its remarkable qualities include being 85% firmly stronger than sapphire and four times stronger than quartz glass.

Transparent aluminum boasts superior technical specifications.

• shift module – 135 GPa;
• elasticity module (Yung module) – 334 GPa;
• Poisson coefficient – 0.24;
• melting temperature – +2150 degrees;
• heating in inert gases – up to +2100 degrees;
• bending strength – up to 0.7 GPa;
• compression strength – 2.65 GPa;
• Destruction resistance – 2 MPa*M1/2;
• thermal conductivity – 12.3 W/(m*K);
• Specific heat capacity – 0.781 J/K;
• Transparency – from 200 to 5000 nm;
• Firmness in MOOS – 7.7, firmness in the knup – 1800 kg/mm²;
• refraction coefficient – 1.78891.

Compared to analogs, aluminum oxinitride has a number of benefits. Its greatest shock resistance, ability to withstand loads, abrasion from sand, rain, salted water, and abrasives, and scratch resistance set it apart. Casting allows you to create products with even the most intricate shapes.

The material transmits light and infrared radiation and is safe for the environment. The completed aluminum ceramic item can be polished or polished without any issues.

Because of its exceptional strength and clarity, transparent aluminum—also referred to as aluminum oxynitride—is a revolutionary material in the building and decoration industries. This cutting-edge ceramic material, more resilient than glass and almost as transparent, has a variety of uses in architecture, from modern, sleek design elements to long-lasting, shatterproof windows and skylights. It combines cutting-edge technology with creative design possibilities, making it the perfect option for both functional and aesthetic purposes due to its resistance to scratches and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

How the material is made

The process of powder sintering yields transparent aluminum oxinitride. Indeed, there aren’t many differences between the technology and other ceramic raw material production methods.

First, a powder mixture with a specific composition is made, with roughly 30–36% aluminum (the precise properties of the Alon will differ slightly based on the foundation’s specific number). Following the powder’s placement in refractory forms made of quartz, graphite, or stainless steel, it is heated to ignition in a special reactor using nitrogen as the gas medium.

Counseling! An argon or oxygen mixture can be used in place of pure nitrogen.

The powder is quickly liquefied during heating at high temperatures and pressures (up to 10 MPa). Freely positioned molecules remain as it cools, forming a crystalline structure.

Transparent aluminum has exceptional strength, dependability, and resistance to mechanical damage because of this structure. Following the substance, various products are cast from it, and these are then heated once more to achieve the desired compaction and are polished until perfect transparency.

The method of spark-plasma sintering

Spark-plasma sintering, a different technique for producing transparent aluminum, was introduced not too long ago. It is predicated on a modified form of hot pressing technology.

An electric current in the form of pulsed discharges flows through the workpiece situated within the form. As a result, the raw material melts quickly after being heated to the appropriate temperature.

The building and decorating industries are seeing a revolution in the use of transparent aluminum, a revolutionary material. This material offers a special fusion of durability and beauty, combining the strength of traditional metals with the transparency of glass.

Transparent aluminum can be used in construction to produce beautiful facades and structural components that let natural light flow deep into structures. By using less artificial lighting and producing cozier spaces, this improves the interior environment.

Furthermore, transparent aluminum gives designers new decorating options. Elegant furniture, ornamental panels, and even creative installations can be made with it. Its robustness and capacity to transmit light make it perfect for both decorative and functional applications.

Transparent aluminum also has useful advantages in addition to its aesthetic appeal. It can be used in place of conventional materials without compromising structural integrity thanks to its high strength-to-weight ratio. By lowering the overall weight of structures, this can result in more environmentally friendly building techniques.

We should anticipate seeing even more creative applications for transparent aluminum as technology develops. This material has the potential to revolutionize the way we design and construct spaces, from complex interior design applications to larger-scale architectural projects. Because of its strength, adaptability, and visual appeal, it is a viable option for building and interior design in the future.

Video on the topic

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