The Chemistry of Soda Lime Glass

Chemistry's Role

Silicon dioxide is formed when silicon is exposed to oxygen (or air).. Higher temperatures and alternative environments are used to grow well-controlled layers of silicon dioxide on silicon.

Soda (Na2CO3) formed when anaerobic microorganisms reduce sulphate to sulphide and oxidize organic matter to CO2. The sulphides hydrolyse to produce free OH which combines with CO2 to form HCO3. Reduced Fe in the system inactivates the sulphides and allows accumulation of NaHCO2. Loss of CO2 from NaHCO2 during dry periods of the year results in formation of Na2CO3.

Background Research

Soda-lime glass is prepared by melting the raw materials, such as soda, lime, silica, and small quantities of fining agents in a glass furnace at temperatures locally up to 1675°C.

Resources

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soda-lime_glass

http://www.jnsglass.com/sodalime.php

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2389.1964.tb02215.x/abstract

About the Author

Reace Bramble always comes to class at 100%. He is a member of the Senior high debate team, and a national qualifier. He enjoys all types of things, and is an excellent student.