Question map
Which one among the following is used in the manufacture of ultra-violet protective glasses?
Explanation
Cerium oxide (CeO2), also known as ceria, is widely utilized in the glass industry specifically for its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is used as a refining agent and to improve UV protection in various glass products, including container glass and automotive windscreens [2]. The material's effectiveness as a UV screening agent is attributed to its high absorption in the ultraviolet region while remaining relatively transparent in the visible spectrum [1]. While other oxides like molybdenum oxide can be used in specialized UV-absorbing glass compositions, cerium oxide is the standard commercial additive for manufacturing UV-protective glasses and precision optics. It is also valued for its polishing properties and its role in catalytic converters. In contrast, aluminium oxide is primarily used for general glass making and ceramics [1], and tungsten oxide is more commonly associated with radiation shielding and electrochromic applications [4].
Sources
- [2] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 13: Types of Rocks & Rock Cycle > 13.5. Some Rock-Forming Minerals > p. 175
- [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027288422401112X
- [4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0969806X23002529