Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that is highly resistant to thermal shock. The word "borosilicate" is spelled as /bɔrəʊsɪlɪkət/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It is derived from the combination of two elements, boron and silica. The pronunciation of the word features the syllabic stress on the second syllable, "ro", and a long "i" sound in the third syllable, "li". The spelling of borosilicate glass may prove challenging for individuals not familiar with chemistry jargon. However, with practice, it can easily be mastered.
Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that is primarily composed of silica (silicon dioxide) and boron trioxide, which gives it unique physical and chemical properties. It is a highly durable and heat-resistant glass variety often used in laboratory equipment, cookware, and specialized applications.
With its low coefficient of thermal expansion, borosilicate glass is capable of withstanding rapid changes in temperature without breaking, making it ideal for use in applications involving extreme temperature fluctuations. It has a maximum operating temperature of up to 500°C (932°F) and can tolerate sudden temperature variations of around 200°C (392°F) without cracking, which sets it apart from other types of glass.
Not only is borosilicate glass thermally resistant, but it is also chemically resistant. It offers exceptional corrosion resistance to acidic and alkaline substances, making it a preferred choice for laboratory glassware and scientific apparatus. Additionally, it is known for its superior transparency, allowing for clear observation and analysis of the substances being worked with.
Due to its exceptional thermal and chemical properties, borosilicate glass has found applications in a wide range of industries, including chemistry, biology, pharmaceuticals, food production, and more. Whether it is test tubes, beakers, pipettes, or cooking pots, borosilicate glass plays a vital role in these fields, offering a safe and reliable material that can withstand demanding conditions.
The word "borosilicate" is derived from the combination of two elements: boron and silica. "Boro" refers to boron, which is a chemical element with the symbol B. "Silicate" comes from silica, which is a compound composed of silicon and oxygen, with the chemical formula SiO2. Therefore, "borosilicate" refers to a type of glass that contains boron and silica as its main components.