MODULATION OF STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES IN Li2O-Al2O3-B2O3 GLASS-CERAMICS THROUGH TiO2 AND P2O5 ADDITIVES

Aluminoborate glass is known for its high resistance to crack propagation. However, its relatively low hardness limits its broader application in cover glass technologies. In this study, an Li2O-Al2O3-B2O3 (LAB) parent glass was prepared via meltcasting and subjected to a crystallisation treatment at 575 degrees C for 1 h. The effects of varying the TiO2/P2O5 nucleating agent ratios on the microstructure, visible light transmittance, Vickers hardness, and scratch resistance of both the parent glass and the resulting glass-ceramics were systematically investigated. The experimental results revealed that under identical heat treatment conditions, the Li(Al7B4O17) crystalline phase was successfully precipitated from the parent glass. When the TiO2/P2O5 ratio was 1, the composite nucleating agent exhibited the strongest ability to promote crystallisation in the glass. The resulting LAB glass-ceramic exhibited well-arranged, densely packed crystalline grains with sizes ranging from 20 to 30 nm. The sample achieved a visible light transmittance of 79.5 %, a hardness of 6.51 GPa, and a CR value of 13.38 N, indicating superior scratch resistance. These properties suggest the potential application of this glass-ceramic in cover glass technologies.