What is borosilicate glass?

Custom tempered glass

Borosilicate glass (commonly known as Pyrex) is a type of glass that contains large amounts of boron and silica. The addition of boron alters the properties of the glass, making it more resistant to thermal shock, chemical corrosion and mechanical stress than ordinary soda-lime glass. Its temperature resistance is stable, can be in a long time in the 450 degrees high temperature environment work, instantaneous temperature resistance up to 800-900 degrees. Due to its unique properties, borosilicate glass is used in a wide range of applications from laboratory to industrial and technical applications.

Laboratory Glassware

Another common use for borosilicate glass is laboratory glassware. The main components of borosilicate glass are silica and boron oxide. The addition of boron oxide greatly improves the thermal shock resistance of the glass, meaning it can withstand rapid temperature changes without cracking or shattering, so borosilicate glass beakers, flasks, test tubes, and pipettes are commonly used in scientific experiments.
Chemically, borosilicate glass is highly inert and resistant to most acids and alkalis. This stability ensures that borosilicate glass can be used in environments where chemical reactions are a concern, such as chemical processing plants or laboratories handling corrosive substances.

Lighting

In addition to laboratory glassware and kitchenware, borosilicate glass is also used in lighting and electronics. The glass is commonly used in the manufacturing of halogen bulbs, lamps, and fiber optic cables. In these applications, the glass acts as a protective layer that prevents the internal components from being damaged by heat or chemicals.

Microscope or Telescope Lenses

In addition, the unrivalled optical clarity of borosilicate glass makes it an excellent choice for applications that require a high degree of visual inspection, such as microscope or telescope lenses. The transparency of borosilicate glass allows for a clear, undistorted view, which is critical in scientific and observational applications.

1.Although borosilicate glass is chemically stable, it still requires careful handling to avoid scratches or cracks. Using soft, non-abrasive cleaning materials and avoiding harsh chemicals will help maintain the integrity of the glass.

2.When using borosilicate glass in scientific or industrial applications, be sure to follow any specific guidelines or safety procedures provided by the manufacturer or relevant organisation. This will ensure that the glass is used correctly and safely, minimising the risk of accidents or damage.

Simply put, borosilicate glass is a versatile and durable material. Its unique properties, including heat resistance, chemical stability, and optical clarity, make it an excellent choice for a variety of industries and uses. When properly cared for and handled, borosilicate glass offers long-lasting performance and reliability, making it ideal for any toolbox or laboratory.

• 上篇：Why glass slides are the Preferred Choice for Microscopic Studies
• 下篇：Where cobalt glass is used？