SO₂ in Glass Manufacturing

SO₂ is widely used in the glass industry for strengthening, protecting, and improving glass products during manufacturing.

Key Roles

Strengthening Glass Surfaces

• Float Glass Process: SO₂ reacts with the surface, creating a silicon-rich layer that increases mechanical resistance.
• Annealing Lehr: Forms a protective film, preventing sticking and improving ribbon stability.

Protection During Handling

• Acts as a lubricant to prevent glass from adhering to rollers.
• In tempering furnaces, it ensures smooth glass movement but must be controlled to avoid corrosion of heating elements.

Other Functions

• Influences coloring and melting kinetics.
• Alters glass structure to improve viscosity, strength, and optical clarity.

Environmental & Safety Notes

• SO₂ emissions must be carefully monitored to prevent air pollution.
• Use of scrubbers and emission control systems is required for compliance.