Current Trends in Glass Technology

¹ Latchford Glass Company Los Angeles, California

Technological developments in glass today are based on increased laboratory research on the nature of the glass-making process, and the use of such tools as phase equilibrium diagrams and petrographic methods. Colorants and their effects upon glass are discussed. The relative protective effect of different colors of commercial glasses indicates the superiority of amber. Glass durability is indicated as having been a problem now under control. Strength is discussed as the most important factor. Automatic inspection for elimination of defects, increased use of coatings for surface protection, better container designs for more efficient use of available material, and new surface treatments indicate a good probability of increased glass strength.