The Difference Between Soda Lime Glass And High Borosilicate Glass

Soda-lime glass and borosilicate glass are two of the most commonly used types of glass. Both types are created by melting raw materials together, but they have different properties and applications.

Soda-lime glass is made from a mixture of silica, soda, and lime. This type of glass is commonly used in windows, tableware, and bottles. It has a low melting point and is easy to shape, which makes it an affordable option for mass production.

One of the main differences between soda-lime glass and borosilicate glass is their thermal properties. Soda-lime glass has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which means that it expands and contracts a lot when exposed to changes in temperature. This can cause it to break or crack when exposed to sudden temperature changes, such as pouring hot liquid into a cold glass.

Borosilicate glass, on the other hand, has a much lower coefficient of thermal expansion, making it much more resistant to sudden temperature changes. This makes it ideal for use in laboratory equipment, such as beakers and test tubes, where samples are often subjected to extreme temperature changes.

Another important difference between the two types of glass is their chemical resistance. Borosilicate glass has a higher resistance to chemical corrosion than soda-lime glass. This makes it ideal for use in chemical laboratories or in the production of pharmaceuticals, where chemical resistance is crucial.

Soda-lime glass is more susceptible to corrosion and is not recommended for use in acidic or caustic environments. Additionally, borosilicate glass has a higher melting point than soda-lime glass, which makes it a more durable and longer-lasting option.

In terms of cost, soda-lime glass is more affordable than borosilicate glass, which makes it the preferred option for many everyday applications. Borosilicate glass is more expensive due to its higher quality and increased durability.

In summary, soda-lime glass and borosilicate glass have different chemical and thermal properties, which make them suitable for different applications. While soda-lime glass is more affordable and is commonly used for everyday items, borosilicate glass is preferred for laboratory equipment and pharmaceutical applications due to its chemical resistance and thermal properties.