Is there a see-through material with low outgassing rate?

In summary: Commercial viewports typically have a pressure rating of 10^-5 torr, which is much higher than what we need. We're looking for a material that is transparent, has a low outgassing rate, and is able to withstand the low pressure.
  • #1
Daniel Sadlier
13
0
I am helping one of my old physics professor and his Phd design a low-atmospheric vacuum chamber and we're looking at different materials to prevent outgassing. However the tank is almost 1m long and all the equipment inside must be taken out and checked after each test. It would be nice if we could see into see which components aren't working or that need to be replaced. Is there a material out there that is transparent and has a minimal outgassing rate? The vacuum chamber must reduce to less than 10^-7 torr.

Thanks!
 
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  • #3
  • #4
Daniel Sadlier said:
less than 10^-7 torr.
Bake out time, resealing, outgassing? Any chance you can build multiple copies of your apparatus, and switch from "failed" to back-up "n" for lower down-time?
 
  • #5
Borosilicate or aluminosilicate glass could work, but would require the use of a getter or pump to maintain that kind of pressure. There is also the risk of implosion, and it would probably be difficult to find someone to build a chamber that large.

W.r.t. constructing the chamber sliced down the middle (per your other thread,) I think you could definitely get away with a clamshell style chamber, although the surface area of the seal would probably be prohibitive for maintaining pressures that low. Can you actively pump on the system?

Are you at liberty to discuss any other details of the apparatus? An ultra-sciencey detector sounds right up my alley ;)
 
  • #6
What is wrong with commercial vacuum viewports? Google found some rated for even lower pressures.
 

Related to Is there a see-through material with low outgassing rate?

1. What is a see-through material with a low outgassing rate?

A see-through material with a low outgassing rate is a material that is transparent or translucent and has a low rate of releasing gas or vapor. This means that it does not emit significant amounts of gas or vapor that can contaminate its surroundings.

2. Why is a low outgassing rate important for a see-through material?

A low outgassing rate is important for a see-through material because it ensures that the material will not release harmful gases or vapors that could affect its functionality or cause health hazards. This is especially important in sensitive environments such as laboratories and cleanrooms.

3. How is the outgassing rate of a material measured?

The outgassing rate of a material can be measured using a technique called thermal desorption. This involves heating the material and measuring the amount of gas or vapor that is released. The results are typically reported in units of pressure, such as Torr or mbar.

4. What types of materials have a low outgassing rate?

Materials with a low outgassing rate are typically non-porous and have a smooth surface. Examples include glass, certain types of plastics, and some metals such as aluminum and stainless steel. These materials are also commonly used in industries that require low outgassing rates, such as aerospace and electronics.

5. Are there any downsides to using a see-through material with a low outgassing rate?

The main downside of using a see-through material with a low outgassing rate is that it can be more expensive than other materials. In addition, some materials may not be suitable for certain applications due to their low outgassing rate, such as in vacuum chambers where a certain level of gas release may be necessary for proper functioning. However, the benefits of using a low outgassing material often outweigh these potential drawbacks.

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