Precious Stone Composite for Timepieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing materials used in timepieces and jewelry lack an aesthetically appealing dispersion of semi-precious or precious stones, and there is a need for enhanced mechanical properties such as hardness and Young's modulus.
Innovation Solution
A synthetic matrix loaded with micrometric powders of precious or semi-precious stones, like diamond, ruby, or emerald, where the particles are coated with coupling agents like organosilanes, titanates, or zirconates to improve bonding and dispersion, enhancing the material's aesthetic and mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If diamond powders are dispersed within a matrix to improve aesthetic appearance, then the aesthetic appearance is enhanced, but the bonding strength and stability between particles and matrix deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling agent is introduced as an intermediary substance between the diamond particles and the matrix. The coupling agent has dual functionality: it chemically bonds to the diamond particles through reactive functions while also bonding to the matrix through organic functions, thereby strengthening and stabilizing the interface between the two materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite material system consisting of three components: diamond particles, coupling agent, and matrix material. This multi-component composite structure allows each component to fulfill its specific function while working together to achieve both aesthetic appearance and mechanical strength.
2Illumination intensity
If diamond particles are dispersed in synthetic material to enhance aesthetic properties, then the aesthetic effect is improved, but the dispersion control during manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling agent serves as a mediating substance that facilitates uniform dispersion of diamond particles within the matrix. By providing compatible chemical bonding sites on both the particle surface and matrix, the coupling agent prevents particle aggregation and ensures homogeneous distribution throughout the material.
3Manufacturing precision
If smaller diamond particles are used to improve dispersion, then the dispersion control is improved, but the sparkling effect deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes the particle size parameter within a specific range (d90 between 50 μm and 2 mm, preferably 100 μm to 1 mm) to achieve a balance between dispersion control and sparkling effect. This parameter optimization ensures particles are large enough to reflect light effectively while being small enough to disperse uniformly within the matrix.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a material with improved hardness, Young's modulus, and a sparkling effect, allowing for a wide range of aesthetic variations and enabling the recycling of scrap stones, while maintaining mechanical integrity and optical effects.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling agents must have reactive functions to chemically bond to the particles on the one hand and on the organic functions of the synthetic material
Data Source
AI summary
A piece, in particular for jewellery or timepieces, is made of a material comprising a synthetic matrix loaded with particles of a precious or semi-precious stone. The particles have a particle size d90 between 50 μm and 2 mm, preferably between 100 μm and 1 mm, and more preferably between 150 μm and 500 μm.