Abstract: Methods of bonding optical components are disclosed. Bonding is achieved without use of adhesives or high temperature fusion. The invention is useful for bonding optical fibers together and for bonding optical fiber arrays to lens arrays.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying thermoplastic decorative inks onto various substrates by printing each color ink onto a releasing surface from a heated engraved or etched metal surface, transferring by intimate mechanical contact the various colors from each releasing surface onto a second releasing collector surface to form a multi-colored print, and transferring the multi-colored print to a ceramic, glass-ceramic or glass substrate by intimate contact with the collector surface.

Abstract: A method for masking selected areas of a glass, glass-ceramic, or ceramic surface against subsequently-applied coating compositions. The method contemplates three general steps: (a) a molten thermoplastic masking coating consisting essentially of about 10-60% bentonite clay, 0-40% of a refractory metal oxide, and 40-80% of a thermoplastic organic medium is applied from a heated surface onto the surface of an elastomeric or silicone-coated body; (b) the thermoplastic coating is cooled thereon to a temperature at which the coating exhibits sufficient tack and cohesiveness to permit transfer from the elastomeric or silicone-coated body; and (c) the so-coated body is brought into contact with the surface of a glass, glass-ceramic, or ceramic article to transfer the coating thereto.