Scientists synthesise first sample of transparent silicon nitride for super hard windows

Scientists at DESY (Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron) have synthesised what they claim to be the first transparent sample of a popular industrial ceramic. The result is a super-hard window made of cubic silicon nitride that can potentially be used under extreme conditions like in engines. Cubic silicon nitride (c-Si3N4) forms under high pressure and is the second hardest transparent nanoceramic after diamond but can withstand substantially higher temperatures.

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