Since it was first made in 500 BC, glass has always been a material of fascination for mankind. Because of its mysterious properties, it can gradually stand up in the long development. It has not been eliminated by society, but has become one of the most widely used and far-reaching materials in the construction industry. From early stained glass Windows, to the intricate components of modern architecture. The role of glass in architecture has evolved over the years, gradually becoming an indispensable material in architecture.
A brief history of glass in the construction industry
In prehistoric times, obsidian and lightning lava were used to make weapons. Both of these materials are naturally occurring. Artificial glass is a kind of luxury material, which is used for decoration, jewelry, utensils and other items.
The technology of blowing glass was developed in Europe in the 1st century AD. The advent of this technology revolutionized glass manufacturing. The technique then spread throughout the Roman Empire. By introducing manganese dioxide, transparent glass is produced. Cast glass Windows began to appear in important Roman buildings. Over the next 1,000 years, glassmaking spread throughout Europe and the Middle East. In the 7th century, Janglo Saxon glass was also used in cathedrals.
By the 11th century, plate glass was made using the Crown glass process. From the 11th to the 18th centuries, stained glass Windows were used in Gothic Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Great artists around the world create amazing patterns with stained glass. In the 19th century, plate glass Windows were used to make Windows. These glasses are completely flat, without any optical distortion.
In 1958, the float glass process was introduced in the world. This method makes the glass plate thickness uniform, the surface is very flat. Modern Windows are made of float glass.
The application of glass in architecture
Since the early 20th century, modern architecture has been producing large quantities of glass and concrete buildings in factories. Glass and steel structures have become a symbol of development in many countries. People often see these buildings as symbols of affluence and luxury.
Glass production
Glassmaking is a very old art. Archaeological evidence shows that glassmaking dates back to before 2500 BC. Glass making was once a rare art, but thanks to the Pilkington process, glass making has become a common industry.
Traditionally, glass was made by blowing liquid glass. Liquid glass is formed by melting sand, calcium oxide and sodium carbonate. Heat at high temperature and then cool to desired shape. The recipe for making glass has been the same for thousands of years. Its performance can be enhanced by adding some mixtures or coatings, and then different requirements can be met.
There is something different about the Pilkington process. It is the transport of large quantities of raw materials (sand, calcium oxide and sodium carbonate) to the glass production plant. It is then weighed and mixed in the correct proportions. Certain mixtures are added to the ingredients to give the glass the appropriate characteristics or color. The mixture is then heated in a gas stove or kiln. Without additives, quartz sand becomes glass at high temperatures. A uniform mixture of molten glass is then formed. This mixture is then floated on molten tin to form glass of the desired thickness. Then let the glass start to cool. The way glass is cooled determines its strength. It must be cooled after maintaining the appropriate temperature, that is, it must be annealed. If cooled in a very short period of time, the glass will become too brittle to handle. Annealed glass is essential for its durability. Be extra careful in the production process.
