Transparent aluminum oxide (TAlOx), a real material despite its sci-fi name, is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, making it perfect for protective coatings on electronics, optical sensors, and solar panels. On the sci-fi show Star Trek, it is even used for starship windows and spacefaring aquariums. Transparent aluminum oxide (TAlOx), a real material despite its sci-fi name, is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, making it perfect for protective coatings on electronics, optical sensors, and solar panels. On the sci-fi show Star Trek, it is even used for starship windows and spacefaring aquariums. Analytical Chemistry Materials Science Phys.org – latest science and technology news stories
Transparent aluminum: Tiny acid droplets turn metal into glass-like material
![Transparent aluminum: Tiny acid droplets turn metal into glass-like material](https://scx1.b-cdn.net/csz/news/tmb/2025/scientists-make-alumin.jpg)