Making Bulletproof Windows from Transparent Clay

Apr-25-15 A synthetic transparent clay developed by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory could be used to create lightweight bulletproof windows and shatter-proof smartphones.

The transparent material is based on a synthetic, powdered version of spinel, a mineral that is mined as a gemstone. Although the NRL has been working with the material for some time, earlier high-heat processes required to shape the material rendered it a bit opaque. To achieve the truly transparent version, the NRL team shaped it by using a hot press in a vacuum. This technique also allows the material to be molded into different shapes, such as a sturdy dome to protect a camera or a more lightweight bulletproof window.

More Info about this Invention:

[POPSCI.COM]
[NRL.NAVY.MIL]

---