Low-temperature resistance testing of processed quartz plates is a critical procedure to ensure their reliable performance in cryogenic environments. Quartz plates are extensively employed in industries such as semiconductors, optics, and chemical engineering due to their superior thermal resistance, chemical stability, and mechanical strength. However, under low-temperature conditions, these materials may be susceptible to cracking or fracture as a result of thermal stress and increased brittleness. Consequently, low-temperature resistance testing plays an essential role in validating the structural integrity and operational reliability of quartz plates in extreme cold environments.

1. Test equipment and conditions

(1) Low temperature test chamber

It is used to simulate low-temperature environments, with a temperature range typically from -196℃ (liquid nitrogen temperature) to room temperature, and can be adjusted according to actual needs.

(2) Temperature controller

It precisely controls the temperature of the low-temperature test chamber to ensure the stability of the test conditions.

(3) Temperature sensor

It conducts real-time monitoring of temperature changes on the surface and inside of quartz plates.

(4) Microscope or crack detector

It is used to observe whether there are cracks or other defects on the surface of quartz plates.

2. Test procedures

(1) Sample preparation

- Select the processed quartz plate samples and ensure that there are no obvious defects on the surface.

- Clean the surface of the quartz plate to remove oil stains, dust and other impurities to avoid affecting the test results.

- Number the quartz plates and record their initial states (such as size, surface condition, etc.).

(2) Pre-cooling treatment

- Place the quartz plate sample in the low-temperature test chamber and gradually reduce the temperature to the target low temperature (such as -196℃) at a slow cooling rate (such as decreasing 1℃ per minute).

- Maintain a low-temperature environment for a certain period of time (such as 1 hour) to allow the quartz plate to fully adapt to the low-temperature conditions.

(3) Low-temperature stability test

- Keep the quartz plate sample at the target low temperature for a period of time and observe whether there are cracks, deformations or other abnormal phenomena on its surface.

- Use a microscope or crack detector to conduct a detailed inspection of the surface of the quartz plate and record any visible defects.

(4) Temperature cycle test 

- Slowly heat the quartz plate sample from a low-temperature environment to room temperature, then cool it back to the target low temperature, and repeat this process several times.

- After each cycle, check the surface condition of the quartz plate and record whether there are cracks, deformations or other abnormalities.

(5) Chemical stability test

- In a low-temperature environment, expose the quartz plate to a specific chemical medium and observe whether a chemical reaction or corrosion occurs.

3. Cautions

(1) Cooling rate control

Rapid cooling may cause the quartz plate to crack due to thermal stress, so the cooling rate needs to be controlled.

(2) Temperature uniformity

It is essential to ensure that the temperature distribution inside the low-temperature test chamber is uniform to avoid local temperatures being too low or too high.

(3) Sample protection

During the testing process, it is essential to avoid any unnecessary mechanical shock or vibration to the quartz plate samples.

(4) Safety protection

Low-temperature testing involves temperatures of a very low order. Operators are required to wear protective gloves, goggles and other appropriate attire to prevent frostbite.

4. Conclusion

The low-temperature resistance testing of processed quartz plates serves as a critical method to ensure their stable performance under extreme cryogenic conditions. Through well-designed testing procedures and stringent operational protocols, the crack resistance, dimensional stability, and mechanical strength of quartz plates can be accurately assessed. The test results not only provide a reliable foundation for practical applications but also offer valuable insights for the further optimization of material design and processing techniques.