1. Introduction
The chemical resistance of the glass block is one of its most important qualities. Glass is an inert, non-porous, non-reactive material, and for this reason it has been used for decades in:
- laboratories
- chemical industries
- swimming pools
- healthcare environments
- food-processing facilities
- high-humidity areas
- environments with vapours or aggressive substances
The closed structure of the glass block, combined with its glass composition, ensures superior chemical resistance compared to many traditional construction materials.
2. Behaviour of the glass block in the presence of chemical agents
The glass block is made of pressed and sealed glass, free of porosity and free of organic materials. This means:
- it does not absorb liquids
- it does not react with weak acids
- it does not react with weak bases
- it is not affected by common solvents
- it does not corrode
- it does not oxidise
- it does not degrade over time
The glass surface remains stable even after prolonged exposure.
3. Resistance to acids and bases
3.1 Weak and moderate acids
The glass block resists without issues:
- acetic acid
- citric acid
- lactic acid
- carbonic acid
- diluted sulphuric acid
- diluted hydrochloric acid
These agents do not alter:
- transparency
- colour
- structure
- surface integrity
3.2 Weak bases
The glass block resists:
- ammonia
- diluted sodium carbonate
- alkaline detergents
- light basic solutions
4. Chemical agents that can damage the glass block
Like all glass materials, the glass block can be damaged by:
4.1 Strong concentrated acids
- hydrofluoric acid (HF)
- concentrated phosphoric acid
- concentrated sulphuric acid
- concentrated hydrochloric acid
These agents can:
- dull the surface
- corrode the glass
- create micro-cracks
4.2 Strong concentrated bases
- concentrated sodium hydroxide
- concentrated potassium hydroxide
They can cause:
- surface corrosion
- loss of gloss
5. Resistance to detergents and cleaning products
The glass block is compatible with:
- neutral detergents
- light alkaline detergents
- light acidic detergents
- glass cleaners
- hard-surface cleaners
- disinfectants
- sanitary products
It does not suffer:
- dulling
- corrosion
- colour alteration
6. Resistance to solvents
The glass block is resistant to:
- ethyl alcohol
- isopropanol
- acetone
- light organic solvents
- gasoline
- mineral oils
- greases
These agents do not penetrate or alter the glass structure.
7. Resistance in special environments
7.1 Marine environments
The glass block is ideal for:
- coastal areas
- environments with salt exposure
- façades facing the sea
Salt does not cause:
- corrosion
- oxidation
- surface degradation
7.2 Swimming pools and spas
The glass block resists:
- chlorine
- chlorine vapours
- salts
- constant humidity
7.3 Industrial environments
The glass block is suitable for:
- food-processing facilities
- light chemical industries
- laboratories
- environments with non-corrosive vapours
8. Fundamental warning: what has been tested and what has NOT been tested. Chemical tests refer exclusively to the glass block.
The tests certify:
- the resistance of the glass
- the stability of the surface
- the absence of porosity
- the non-reactivity
No installation system has been certified.
The chemical resistance of the finished wall also depends on:
- mortar
- sealants
- reinforcement
- joints
- complementary materials
If an installer uses:
- non-resistant mortar
- unsuitable sealants
- incompatible materials
The declared performance CANNOT be guaranteed.
9. Technical responsibility notice (mandatory)
The performance values reported derive exclusively from official tests carried out on glass blocks.
Future Glass Block:
- does not certify installation systems
- does not guarantee the chemical resistance of the finished work
- cannot be responsible for installation carried out by third parties
- cannot guarantee performance if materials different from those used in the tests are employed
Final verification of the work must be carried out by:
- the designer
- site management
- the competent authority
The information provided is for informational purposes and does not constitute product certification.