| Glass-mica compound that occupies a place between plastics and ceramics in terms of usage temperature. It can be molded and machined like plastics and has the mechanical properties (strength, hardness) typical of ceramics. It is made by mixing the components in powder form and heated under pressure. The glass particles melt and cover the mica flakes to form a hard, compact mass. It does not burn, is not hygroscopic, has high resistivity, is suitable for vacuum use, and has generally good chemical resistance - it is attacked by acetic, hydrochloric and nitric acid but resists sulfuric and phosphoric acids, ammonia, caustic soda, organic solvents, and saline solutions. Applications include electric traction (railways, subways), busbar mountings, terminals, power cable mountings, switchbox mountings, and insulation of heating elements. Information provided by Saint-Gobain Quartz PLC. |
