The Weathering Properties Of Glass In Relation To Composition And Surface Treatment

The mechanisms of weathering of glass surfaces in contact with various media are presented in order to understand how weathering may be affected by glass composition, climatic conditions and surface treatment. To reduce the rate of weathering, the glass composition should be as high in alumina and as low in soda and magnesia as possible, and the bottles should be stored in dry, cool conditions. In exceptional circumstances where extremely durable glass is required, the durability of the glass can be improved thorough the use of surface treatment. An example of this is the production of bottles for intravenous solutions from normal soda lime glass, in which the glass is treated with sulphur dioxide.