Modification of the float-glass surface by treatment with urea aqueous solution

The thermo-chemical modification of float-glass surface structure and prope rties by the aerosol of aqueous solution of urea was investigated. It is sh own that the character of the modification depended on the temperature of t reatment. The chemical interaction of urea. and water vapor with the soda-l ime-silicate glass-yielded different products under various treatment condi tions; the effects of such products on the glass properties were also analy zed. For industrial application of the investigated treatment, the temperat ure range of 140-160 degreesC has been identified as optimal, promoting inc reased mechanical strength and enhanced adhesion of glass surface to poly(v inyl butiral); also this is not related to atmosphere contamination. The ef fectiveness of the proposed method was tested and confirmed under industria l conditions of float-glass production. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.