LARRYN SMERLING | DS 224 | FALL 2020
TEMPERED GLASS
Source & Production
Glass is a coveted building material widely used for its transparent properties that open space and allow light to flood in. The material is hard, yet a brittle substance that needs to be specially treated to withstand various forms of force. Glass that is tempered is more heat resistant and safer when it breaks than untreated Glass.
Glass is used around the world as sand is abundant material. Most of the development of Glass as an art form comes from Italy.
Characteristics
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TRANSPARENT
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CLEAR/ WITH CAPABILITY TO BE COLORED WITH MINERALS
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BRITTLE/ HARD
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DURABLE
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Product Application
Windows are the most common application for tempered Glass. They are used in both buildings and vehicles because of the protection if/when the Glass shatters.
Maintenance
Requirements
The transparent quality of Glass makes it susceptible to smudging. Frequent cleaning is required, especially in high traffic locations, to maintain the allure of using Glass as a material. There are glass cleaning solutions, or the use of microfiber/ soft cloths will remove markings.
Environmental Impact
The main component of Glass (sand) is naturally abundant and is all over the world; transportation emissions are considerably lower due to the material's abundance. One downside is that it takes a lot of energy( heat/ fuel) to form Glass from its raw material. Glass can also be continuously recycled and does not affect indoor air quality, making it a versatile material.
Design
Opportunity
Tempered Glass is one of the safer variations of the material; its strength can be used in furniture, flooring, light fixtures, windows, walls, and sculpture.
Organizations
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National Glass Association
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Safety Glazing Certification Council
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Guardian Glass
Standards
ASTM international
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ASTM C1048 - 18: Standard Specification for heat- strengthened / fully tempered Flat Glass
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ASTM C1443 -99 : Standard specification for Glasses , circular, fully tempered glass
