Abstract: | In this article, a method based on the "submerged mirror" technique to measure the absorption coefficient of molten glass is presented. Infrared light, which is modulated by Michelson's interferometeric setup, passes through the molten glass and is collected by a mercury-cadmium-telluride (MCT) or a silicon detector. The signal is processed by a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer to yield the spectral intensity of the infrared light. The processes are repeated with different thicknesses of molten glass layer. The spectral absorption coefficient is calculated from the apparent transmittance. Tests of the apparatus have been made with distilled water, for which the results agree well with existing data. Measurements were carried out for a number of calcia-alumina-silicate glasses at temperatures ranging from 1,200 to 1,300°C. |