Arc Launches Alternative To Crystal

French glassware manufacturer Arc International has created a new high-tech glass, branded Kwarx and designed as a partial alternative to crystal in markets where the lead content of crystal represents an obstacle to exports. Production costs for the new material are expected to be four times lower than for crystal, and the transparency of the product is said to be superior. Kwarx will be made at the company's main plant at Arques, and it is hoped that this will offset the effect on employment of the company restructuring. The new high-tech glass is reported to be especially suited to wine bottling, and the company is also aiming to use the product in industrial and decorative products. (whole item)