Fabrication of 'unbreakable' glass

Wine glass does not break? Baby bottles do not break? Can coffee cups survive for generations?

All of these examples can be realized with the technology of increasing the strength of glass and ceramic developed by a Alfred University researcher.

Alfred University has signed a contract with Santanoni Glass and Ceramics of Alfred Station, NY, on technology ownership related to strengthening the durability of glass.

This technology allows Santanoni to make 'unbreakable' glassware such as wine glasses, bottles, jars, cups, small glasses at a cost that can compete with conventional glass products.

Dr. William LacCourse, Professor of Glass Science at the Ceramic Technical College of Alfred University, New York State, and president of the company, is located at the Ceramic Innovation Center at Alfred, has studied technology. Reinforce the durability of glass for more than 30 years.

LaCourse said: 'No glass is not broken, but our technology creates the most durable glass available today, at a price that suits consumers' pocket. This technology has the potential to help restaurants, food service providers and families save 80% of the cost of glass products. We dropped glass bottles from a height of 10 feet to the floor, but the glass bottle just bounced up without breaking. '

Wine glass does not break? (Photo: farm3.static.flickr.com)

Under the contract, Santanoni will have the right to use the technology developed by LaCourse and his fellows.Glass products will be made at Alfred Station, NY, Sugar Hill Industrial Park, and will be sold throughout the country.

'We are working with a number of distributors, and will carry out major customer marketing campaigns through souvenir shops and the Internet. We also contacted many food service companies, whose products we can save them thousands of dollars. '

Alfred Charles Edmondson University Principal said that the contract with Santanoni 'is very significant for Afred University and Sounthern Tier. This shows that research on high-tech materials can create jobs and economic growth. '

For many years, research was funded by Afred High Technology Center (CACT) as well as Santanoni. Lacourse said: 'CACT's support is very important when the company starts. The company cannot exist until today without the support of CACT. I am grateful to CACT and the University very much, especially in the provision of laboratories, equipment and financial assistance. This is when I show my gratitude. '

Santanoni's products are currently manufactured in limited quantities, the company is preparing to increase production.