Colorless Glass with Ultraviolet Fluorescence
Date
2015-05-08
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Abstract
For this experiment, I batched glass compositions and tested them to reveal the optimal composition of ultraviolet fluorescent glass. Batching glass is similar to baking cookies. I used System 96 as the base glass composition; this can be seen as a box cookie mix. I then varied the rare earth oxides, i.e. chocolate chips, to find what amount was ideal. The first group of samples had different rare earth oxides, but constant concentration. From this samarium oxide was chosen for further compositional analysis due to its bright fluorescence and intriguing peachy color. The second group of samples only had samarium oxide added to the System 96, but the concentration was varied. These samples were tested on brightness of fluorescence, thermal expansion, and cost. The result is that composition 9, which is 0.8g of samarium oxide to 100g of System 96 frit, is the optimal composition created. Composition 9 is compatible with System 96 in terms of thermal expansion. This composition is also has the highest fluorescence intensity of the compositions tested. The price may seem high, but the fluorescence effect goes a long way in making a statement. In the end composition 9 should be scaled up and used by artists.
Description
Thesis completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Alfred University Honors Program.
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Thesis
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Keywords
Honors thesis, Glass, Rare Earth Oxides, Fluorescence