Float Glass | Building Materials
Comprehensive guide to Float Glass including properties, applications, advantages, and limitations. Learn about this fundamental glass type produced by floating molten glass on molten tin for perfectly flat, distortion-free surfaces.
Composition
Silica-based material with additives for specific performance characteristics
Properties
Density
2500 kg/m³
Standard glass
Thermal Conductivity
1.0 W/mK
Poor insulator unless treated
Tensile Strength
30-100 MPa
Varies by treatment
Applications
Interior applications
Float Glass can be used for interior walls, floors, and decorative elements.
Exterior applications
Float Glass is suitable for exterior facades, cladding, and structural elements.
Specialized uses
Float Glass has unique properties making it ideal for specific architectural features.
Advantages
- Transparent - allows natural light
- Recyclable material
- Impermeable to liquids and gases
- Resistant to chemical damage
Limitations
- Poor thermal insulation (unless specialized)
- Fragile and brittle
- High cost for specialized treatments
- Privacy concerns
Sustainability Profile
Glass is infinitely recyclable without quality degradation, though production is energy-intensive. Its ability to harness passive solar energy in buildings can offset energy costs over time.