How Exactly Is Glass Made?
We use glass for our buildings, cars, in our kitchens, and countless other applications. Undeniably, we rely on this product every single day. But, have you ever questioned how glass is actually made? Read on to discover how this obscure 'frozen liquid’ is made.
How Glass Is Made
Many people are surprised to learn that glass is actually made from liquid sand. Sand is mostly made up of silicon dioxide. When sand is adequately heated (at 1700°C), it melts and turns into liquid. Once this liquid has cooled, it transforms into a completely new structure. Regardless of how much this liquid has cooled, it can never truly become solid. Instead, it becomes a ‘frozen liquid’, or as scientists call it, an ‘amorphous solid’.
Why Can We See Through Glass?
We can see through glass precisely because it is an amorphous solid. When solids transform into liquids, the molecules that make up the matter are no longer aligned with one another. They instead assume a far less orderly alignment. Molecules are most unaligned in a gas state but are sufficiently unaligned to allow light to pass through in liquid form.
What About Safety Glass?
Traditional glass can shatter easily when obstructed. Laminated glass, however, is shatter proof. It is made by using two or more sheets of glass and bonding these with an interlayer. If the glass were to smash, it is held together by this interlayer. As the layers of glass remain stuck to the interlayer, this prevents the glass from shattering into tiny pieces. Instead, it creates a distinct “spider web” effect when smashed. Hence, structural glass laminate is often referred to as “safety glass”. Polyvision’s range of Polystrong Structural Laminate products are an excellent solution for clients after stunning design and safety.
How Is Switchable Glass Made?
Polyvision Switchable Glass turns from clear to opaque at the flick of a switch. This sounds simple enough, but the technology behind this is a tad more complex. Switchable glass is laminated. The liquid crystal molecules contained in the laminated glass respond to electrical currents. When switched off, the glass is opaque. This is because the liquid crystal molecules it houses are randomly oriented and able to scatter light. When you switch the power on and apply the electric current, it causes these liquid crystal molecules to line up neatly, letting light pass through and rendering the glass transparent. This reaction is instant; as soon as the power is turned on, the glass is instantly clear.
At PTG Commercial Glazing, we specialise in quality glass products that most companies would throw in the ‘too hard’ basket. We manufacture a large variety of architecturally brilliant products to suit your design desires. Every glass product that leaves our factory floor is one that our whole team can be proud of. If you would like to find out more, be sure to contact us.