Publication Date:
2013-08-07
Description:
We introduce, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, the use of variable frequency microwave (VFM)-assisted second ion exchange to selectively modify the compressive stress CS in chemically strengthened glass sheets, which allows for separation of these glass sheets into smaller pieces using a conventional cutting tool. The CS in paste-coated zones, in the regions where it is desired for separation of the glass sheets, was successfully manipulated via VFM-assisted second ion exchange, substituting the larger alkali ions in glass by smaller ions of the paste. Its effect on chemically strengthened glass was characterized using a strain viewer, an optical microscope, and an electron probe microanalyzer. We also report on the scribability and breakability across the stress relaxation zones. The results reveal a CS loss of only 3%, from 677 to 656 MPa, in the paste-uncoated zones, and complete CS relaxation, down to 0 MPa, in the paste-coated regions. The areas of relaxed CS enable the separation of the strengthened glass sheets using conventional wheel cutting.
Print ISSN:
0002-7820
Electronic ISSN:
1551-2916
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
Permalink