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

The thermo-chemical modification of float-glass surface structure and properties by the aerosol of aqueous solution of urea was investigated. It is shown that the character of the modification depended on the temperature of treatment. The chemical interaction of urea and water vapor with the soda–lime–silicate glass yielded different products under various treatment conditions; the effects of such products on the glass properties were also analyzed. For industrial application of the investigated treatment, the temperature range of 140–160 °C has been identified as optimal, promoting increased mechanical strength and enhanced adhesion of glass surface to poly(vinyl butiral); also this is not related to atmosphere contamination. The effectiveness of the proposed method was tested and confirmed under industrial conditions of float-glass production.