3D printing of optical glasses
3D printing of optical glasses
3D printing of optical glasses
Assignment: Conduct research on the development of 3D printable optical glasses, focusing on the integration of GeO₂, TiO₂, and SiO₂. Discuss the significance of tuning chemical complexity of metal organic photocurable materials and the effect on the optical properties of the printed replica, which upon annealing leads to glass.
Experimental Design
Propose an experimental setup to fabricate a series of GeO₂–TiO₂–SiO₂ glass samples with varying metal organic compositions. It also outline the procedures for preparing colloidal feedstocks for 3D printing process, and subsequent heat treatments. Detail the methods for measuring refractive indices and Abbe numbers of the fabricated glasses. Material characterization like SEM. XRD and XPS will be assessed.
Application Development Study
Identify and discuss potential applications of the 3D printed glasses, such as in gradient-index optics or custom lens fabrication. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of 3D printing in the energy transition glass industry and its feasibility.
Contact info:
Supervisor:
Susarrey Arce, Arturo - a.susarreyarce@utwente.nl