Manufacturing solutions for polycrystalline transparent spinel domes

摘要

Magnesium aluminate spinel is a durable, broadband, electro-optical material that can be readily manufactured into transparent domes for multimode seeker applications. Technology Assessment & Transfer, Inc. reports on the results of its Army SBIR-funded research and development efforts to resolve manufacturing issues with regard to transparent spinel domes. The specific areas of study have been cost, quality, and ability to scale up to full production. Alternative manufacturing approaches were evaluated and compared. A clear path to full scale production has been identified.