This project will develop predictive models for ion diffusion processes in float glass by a combination of mathematical modelling and SIMS depth profiling experiments. Physical properties resulting from ion diffusion will be predicted as functions of production and processing conditions. A predictive model for ion diffusion is important in the prevention of bubble formation, the major cause of loss in glass manufacture, and glass corrosion during storage and use.

Project staff and support

Xian Tian Yang (Postgraduate Associate, Imperial College London)
Paul Tangney (Academic supervisor, Imperial College London)
Daniel Lesnic (Academic co-supervisor, University of Leeds)
Paul Holmes (Industrial supervisor, Pilkington)
Melvin Brown (Technology Translator, Industrial Mathematics KTN)

This project is being carried out at Imperial College London, in conjunction with Pilkington. It is supported by an EPSRC industrial CASE award, made available through the Knowledge Transfer Network for Industrial Mathematics. Start date: October 2007; duration: 3.5 years.