Aspects of processing and properties of translucent oxides

Optical ceramics are mainly found in the family of binary oxides. Some ternary and quarternary compounds are of importance too. From the variety of low temperature and high temperature applications for these ceramics, as a main example the use as envelope material for Na discharge lamps is discussed. In this application the material has to endure rather severe chemical and thermo-mechanical conditions. Some common aspects for a number of optical ceramics are reviewed