Optically Transparent Glass and Glass-Ceramic Foams, Method for Production Thereof and Use Thereof

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention presents a new method for making optically transparent glass and glass-ceramic foams. The process involves forming a foam from a mixture of pre-ceramic silicon polymer, glass powder, and additives called glass converters, then converting this foam into glass or glass-ceramic at controlled temperatures. The resulting material is a porous, monolithic structure that allows light to pass through efficiently, making it suitable for optical and catalytic applications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Carrier substrate for photocatalysts in light-driven chemical reactions
• Support material for enzymes or microbes in bioreactors using light or sunlight
• Material for environmental catalysis, such as removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from water or air
• Optical devices requiring transparent, porous glass structures
• Biocatalysis processes where light transmittance through the support is necessary

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High optical transparency across a broad range of sunlight wavelengths, enhancing efficiency in light-driven processes
• Excellent permeability for liquids and gases due to open-cell foam structure, improving catalytic and bioreactor performance
• Lower production temperatures compared to conventional glass foam methods, preserving foam structure and reducing energy consumption
• Ability to tailor glass composition and foam structure for specific applications
• Versatile carrier platform for a variety of catalysts, enzymes, or microorganisms
• Potential for improved mechanical stability and durability compared to traditional foams

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to an optically transparent glass foam or glass-ceramic foam and to a method for producing an optically transparent glass foam or glass-ceramic foam. A description is given of a method for producing optically transparent foams, the following steps being performed: a) mixing pre-ceramic Si polymer, glass powder and glass converters; b) heating the mixture to a temperature below the decomposition temperature of the pre-ceramic Si polymer to form a foam; c) heating the foam obtained to a temperature above the decomposition temperature of the pre-ceramic Si polymer; d) heating the product obtained to a temperature between 700°C and 1400°C to form glass; and e) cooling the product thus obtained to ambient temperature. A description is also given of the use for predominantly optical applications, such as for example as a carrier for photocatalysts, a carrier for enzymes/microbes which operate with light/sunlight in bioreactors, in environmental catalysis, biocatalysis and, for example, for the removal of VOCs from wastewater and air.