Apple Inc.
Controlled crystallization of glass ceramics for electronic devices

Abstract:

Methods are disclosed directed to a controlled crystallization (ceramic particle growth) of a shaped glass ceramic workpiece. The physical and chemical properties of the shaped glass ceramic of the present invention may be specified or tailored by shaping or machining the workpiece during or in combination with a controlled crystallization process that nucleates (precipitates) ceramic particles from a glass material. For example, in one embodiment, a non-crystalline amorphous solid may be heated above a transition temperature and shaped (e.g., molded, pressed, or the like). Ceramic particles may be precipitated within the solid during at least one of the heating or the shaping, thereby forming a shaped glass ceramic.