Glass has been a key material in human technology for thousands of years, but modern glass manufacturing processes have advanced significantly in recent decades. Today, glass can be produced in a variety of shapes, sizes, and compositions, making it an incredibly versatile material for everything from architectural facades to smartphone screens. However, even with these advances, some types of glass can still suffer from a phenomenon known as “glass cancer” In this article, we’ll explore what glass cancer is, how it develops, and what can be done to prevent it.
What is Glass Cancer?
Glass cancer is a term used to describe the deterioration of certain types of glass over time. The term is most commonly used to refer to soda-lime-silica glass, which is a type of glass used in a wide range of applications, from windows to bottles to household objects. Over time, this type of glass can develop a web of tiny cracks on its surface, giving it a frosted or cloudy appearance. These cracks can eventually penetrate the glass, causing it to weaken and break.
What Causes Glass Cancer?
The exact cause of glass cancer is still not entirely understood, but researchers have identified several factors that can contribute to its development. One of the main factors is the presence of moisture, which can lead to the growth of tiny crystals on the surface of the glass. These crystals can then create stress on the glass, leading to cracking. Other factors that can contribute to glass cancer include exposure to extreme temperatures, exposure to certain chemicals, and physical trauma. Sea spray contains salt which is also known to bring on Glass Cancer without regular removal.
Preventing Glass Cancer
Preventing glass cancer requires a combination of careful manufacturing processes and proper maintenance. One of the main ways to prevent glass cancer is to ensure that the glass is manufactured to a high standard. This involves using high-quality materials and carefully controlling the manufacturing process to minimize the presence of impurities that can contribute to the development of cracks. Additionally, glass manufacturers can use various treatments and coatings to improve the durability and resistance of the glass.
Proper maintenance of glass surfaces is also important for preventing glass cancer. This includes regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface of the glass and create stress points. It also means avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface of the glass. In addition, it’s important to avoid subjecting the glass to extreme temperatures or physical trauma, as these can also contribute to the development of cracks.
Finally, it’s important to note that not all types of glass are prone to glass cancer. There are many types of glass available that are more resistant to cracking and other forms of deterioration. For example, tempered glass is a type of glass that is specially treated to be much stronger and more durable than standard soda-lime-silica glass. This makes it ideal for use in high-stress applications like automobile windows, architectural facades, and smartphone screens.
Glass cancer is a complex phenomenon that is still not fully understood. However, by carefully controlling the manufacturing process and taking proper care of glass surfaces, it is possible to minimize the risk of this type of deterioration. Additionally, by choosing the right type of glass for a particular application, it is possible to achieve the desired level of durability and resistance to stress. As glass continues to play an important role in modern technology, it’s important to continue researching and developing new ways to improve its durability and longevity.
If your windows are in need of protection against glass cancer, consider contacting Lifestyle Cleaning Services on 02 4932 8187 for an obligation free quote! You can also fill out a contact form here!