Glass treatment is the process of preparing the surface of glass to better resist corrosion and etching. Solvay provides a range of raw materials, acid polishing compounds and matt etching solutions to enable glass manufacturers to optimize their manufacturing processes.
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Patterned glass is often treated after it is made in order to apply the desired layer of opacity, colors or designs. There are four main methods that are used in glass treatment.
Acid-based glass treatments use a dangerous material that must be handled with great care in order to protect workers and the environment. This makes it more expensive than other options. Additionally, smudges aren’t easily removed from the glass and the color options are limited.
Ceramic frit glass treatments bake patterns onto the glass using high temperatures and ceramic fuses. This creates a strong bond that holds up well against scratches and other damage, but it doesn’t offer the same protection as tempered glass.
Hydrophobic glass treatments are the most recent and most exciting development in glass treatment. They create a surface that is afraid of water and instead sheets off the glass or carries away loose dirt and minerals, meaning spots aren’t as easy to form on the surface.
Despite the hype, this type of glass coating isn’t worth investing in. It doesn’t last as long as other options and can be worn down by harsh cleaners and abrasives. It also requires a significant amount of time to apply and cure, so don’t be fooled by the infomercial-style sales pitches.