[takebackaustin]

People, please put on your reading glasses.

Alumina ( not aluminum ) is Al₂O₃. Transparent alumina is no more transparent aluminum than rock salt is transparent sodium. Ruby and sapphire are transparent alumina.

As to the original article: micro hat, pico cattle.

[Dark Knight]

Ahh,yes there is no aluminum in Al2O3. Gee, the DOD is interested in this compound as a replacement for glass. It survives a .50 cal AP shell better than glass.

http://www.scienceblog.com/cms/air_force_testing_new_transparent_armor_9113

Glad you aren't a DOD person, it's going to save lives.

But I was only replying to the humorous remark of BipolarBob in kind.

Make a windshield with ruby or saphire that can withstand .50 cal AP round at $4-$10 per square inch and you have a point.

You don't.

DK