English: Transparent spinel (MgAl2O4) ceramic, which is superior to the glass, sapphire, and other materials traditionally used for applications such as high-energy laser windows and lightweight armor. NRL’s transparent spinel ceramic can also be paired with its patented BGG glass material, which offers excellent optical transmission in the visible and mid-infrared wavelength range and the low cost and ease of use and production offered by glass.

Process scalability to large sizes and complex shapes and is strong, rigid, and environmentally durable with reduced manufacturing cost over existing technologies. It demonstrates high reproducibility, and high yield.

Applications Include:

• Consumer electronics
• High energy lasers
• Transparent armor

-- Public domain content in this description is from the U.S. Navy website (see source URL.)