FLUORIDE GLASS SYNTHESIS BY SOL-GEL PROCESS

Zr/Ba/La/Al/Na (ZBLAN) fluoride glass has been synthesized by sol-gel processing using organometallic precursors. A first step includes the preparation of a wet oxide gel containing Zr, Ba, La, Al and Na in the respective proportions of the ZBLAN glass. After partial drying, this gel is fluorinated by gaseous HF at 200 degrees C. Glass powder obtai ned in this way has been characterized by X-ray diffraction and differ ential scanning calorimetry. Bulk samples are obtained by melting in d ry atmosphere. This process offers advantages for fluoride glass techn ology.