Glass Industry
There are four major sectors to the glass industry - Container Glass, Flat Glass, Fibreglass and Speciality Glass. Despite the different end products produced the processes use many of the same chemicals.
Dipping Process:
Manufactured products are dipped into acidic or caustic baths. The main chemicals used are Sulphuric Acid, Nitric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide and Hydrofluoric Acid*
Engraving:
Hydrofluoric Acid* gas or solution is usually used to etch the glass. In addition other fluorides such as Sodium Hydrofluoride or Ammonium Bifluoride can be used. These all carry a potentially lethal risk due to the toxic fluoride ions that can chelate calcium from the blood stream.
Chemicals of note in this indutry
Hydrochloric Acid, Sulphuric Acid, Nitric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydrofluoric Acid*
Diphoterine® is suitable for all chemicals listed - apart from Hydrofluoric Acid* for which Hexafluorine® is recommended. These, used in addition with Trivorex®, Polycaptor® and Le Vert ®/ Le Vert HF®, can provide security in dealing with all chemical splashes and spills.
Additional Reading: