Glasfase

Glasfase, or glass phase, refers to the non-crystalline, amorphous component of a material that lacks long-range atomic order. It may form a continuous matrix in glasses and glass-ceramics or appear as a dispersed phase within crystalline assemblages. The glass phase is characterized by short-range order rather than a repeating lattice.

In ceramics and glass-ceramics, the glasfase arises when a melt cools rapidly enough to suppress crystallization, yielding a vitrified matrix. During sintering, partial melting can create a liquid-like phase that aids densification. Controlled heat treatment may induce devitrification, where crystalline phases precipitate within the glass and modify properties.

In geology, natural glasses such as obsidian are examples of a large glasfase; they form from lava that cools too quickly to form crystals. The glass retains the chemical signature of its source and cooling history.

Properties and methods of study: The amorphous structure gives isotropy and broad chemical tolerance but can reduce mechanical strength if excessive. The glasfase softens over a range of temperatures (glass transition). Its presence affects viscosity, thermal expansion, and chemical durability. It is typically studied with X-ray diffraction (broad halos), differential scanning calorimetry (glass transition), and electron microscopy to reveal the amorphous matrix.