====== Borosilicate Glass ======

**Borosilicate Glass** is a specialized type of glass that includes boron trioxide, which allows for a very low coefficient of thermal expansion. This means it will not crack under extreme temperature changes like ordinary soda-lime glass. 

In the world of tableware, it is the premier choice for "heat-resistant" products, ranging from delicate tea presses to heavy-duty glass bakeware.

===== 1. Key Characteristics =====

  * **Thermal Shock Resistance**: It can withstand rapid temperature shifts—for example, pouring boiling water into a chilled pitcher—without shattering.
  * **Durability & Clarity**: It is more resistant to chemical corrosion and maintains its crystal-clear transparency even after repeated use.
  * **Lightweight**: Borosilicate items often feel lighter and thinner than traditional glass, yet they are structurally stronger.
  * **Non-Reactive**: It is completely non-porous and lead-free, ensuring that the taste of your tea or coffee remains pure.

===== 2. Borosilicate vs. Soda-Lime Glass =====

^ Feature ^ Borosilicate Glass ^ Soda-Lime Glass ^
| **Thermal Resistance** | High (up to 170°C change) | Low (prone to shattering) |
| **Durability** | High chemical resistance | Scratches more easily |
| **Typical Use** | Coffee/Tea ware, Lab glass | Drinking glasses, Windows |
| **Weight** | Lighter | Heavier |



===== 3. Common Tableware Applications =====

  * **Coffee Gear**: French presses, pour-over drippers (like Chemex), and double-walled espresso cups.
  * **Tea Service**: Transparent teapots with glass infusers to showcase blooming teas.
  * **Bakeware**: Oven-to-table roasting dishes and storage containers.

===== 4. Care and Maintenance =====

  * **Dishwasher Safe**: Generally safe, but be careful with "Double-walled" glasses; ensure they are securely placed to avoid clinking.
  * **Microwave & Oven Safe**: Excellent for heating, but always avoid direct flame unless specified by the manufacturer.
  * **Avoid Impact**: While thermally strong, it is still glass. Dropping it on a hard surface will cause it to break.

===== 5. Notable Manufacturers =====

  * [[:en:brands:hario|HARIO]] (Japan) - The "King of Glass," world-renowned for their V60 drippers and heat-resistant servers.
  * [[:en:brands:bodum|BODUM]] (Denmark) - Famous for popularizing the French Press and double-walled borosilicate glasses.
  * [[:en:brands:pyrex|PYREX]] (Original Formula) - Historically used borosilicate for its iconic lab and kitchenware.
  * [[:en:brands:chemex|CHEMEX]] (USA) - Uses high-quality borosilicate for its laboratory-grade pour-over carafes.

{{tag>materials glass heat_resistant coffee tea}}