Effect Of Water On The Frictive Behaviour Of Glasses

The optical, chemical and electrical properties of glass make it a preferred material for many applications. Unfortunately, its use is often limited by the low practical strength caused mainly by surface flaws. The flaws are introduced into the surface by different handling processes. The damage caused by these contacts which are mainly of a frictive nature, reduces the strength to the observed low values. Understanding the mechanisms of friction can help to minimize surface damage, thus making glass more attractive for a wider variety of applications, and to lower costs by reducing rejects and by increasing product life times.