Abstract

As materials formed by the controlled nucleation and crystallization of glass, glass-ceramics can combine the advantages of glass with the optical and mechanical benefits of crystals. Commercial glass-ceramics are used in applications requiring high thermal and mechanical stability, with products including radiant cooktop panels, telescope mirrors, cookware, and dental and medical prostheses. In addition to these products, future applications for glass-ceramics are likely to capitalize on designed-in, highly specialized properties for the transmission, display, and storage of information.