Glass (toughened)

Toughened glass, also known as tempered glass, is a type of glass that has been treated with heat and chemicals to make it stronger and more durable than regular glass. It is commonly used in applications where safety is a concern, such as car windows, shower doors, and smartphone screens.

In the circular economy, toughened glass has a number of potential benefits.

Firstly, it is fully recyclable although it needs special recycling facilities that can handle the higher melting point of toughened glass compared to standard glass.

When it reaches the end of its useful life, it can be melted down and used to create new products, such as new glass products or even construction materials like fiberglass. This means that it can be incorporated into the circular economy and reduces the need for new raw materials to be extracted.

Secondly, toughened glass is highly durable and has a long lifespan, which means it can be used for many years before it needs to be replaced. This reduces the overall environmental impact of the material and makes it a more sustainable choice compared to products that need to be replaced more frequently.

In terms of production, toughened glass is made by heating regular glass to a high temperature and then cooling it rapidly. This process makes the glass much stronger and more resistant to breakage. The production process requires significant amounts of energy, which is one of the main environmental impacts of the material. However, this can be mitigated by using renewable energy sources in the production process.

Toughened glass has a number of different properties that make it useful in a variety of applications. It is much stronger and more durable than regular glass, making it suitable for use in high-stress environments. It is also resistant to thermal shock, which means it can withstand extreme temperature changes without breaking.

Some examples of how toughened glass is used include car windows, shower doors, smartphone screens, and architectural glazing. It is also used in the construction of buildings and in the manufacturing of furniture and other household items.