Removal rates of fused silica with cerium oxide/pitch polishing

The polishing removal rates of fused silica under twenty test conditions have been characterized by the resulting Preston coefficients and an inspection of surface quality using a Nomarski microscope and an optical heterodyne profilometer. Preston coefficient values of >16{times}10{sup {minus}14} cm{sup 3}/dyne-cm have been established, approximately a factor of ten higher than cited previously. However, operational variables can reduce removal rates significantly. Process parameters are shown to have an effect on surface quality which has been related to surface deposits. The effects of chemical additives on removal rates were of special interest. Of importance here is not necessarily the introduction of such additives in practise. The results may improve our understanding of the chemistry of polishing. 15 refs.