Glass surfaces respond in a number of ways to an aqueous environment, depending on composition and environmental conditions such as pH and temperature. Many applications of glass depend on its superior chemical resistance or its ability to react with an environment. Foods and medicines can be packaged and stored for extended times with little or no contamination. Architectural glass can survive for decades or even centuries and retain its transparency and strength despite continuous assault by environmental pollutants. Dinnerware and cooking utensils may be subjected to extremes of temperature and chemical environments, yet retain usefulness over a prolonged period. This article takes a look at non-traditional glass compositions, surface charge effects, forming effects & chemo-mechanical effects.
