Engineered transparencies are an essential component of electronic devices, particularly cover screens in smart phones. Strengthened glass and, to a lesser degree, sapphire crystal have been used for these applications. Manufacturing methods for strengthened glass and sapphire bulk materials dictate costs and, to a greater degree, material properties as well as limitations of the material for their use in consumer items. This article analyses and compares material manufacturing and article fabrication processes for strengthened glass and sapphire crystal and addresses advantages and disadvantages for physical properties, such as strength, abrasion resistance, fracture toughness, and light reflection and touch sensing for cover screen applications.
