Abstract

When an alkali silicate comes in contact with water, a complicated sequence of processes occurs: ion exchange, dissolution of glass, and possible structural changes in the glass surface. The rate and extent of these reactions depend most strongly on glass composition, solution conditions, especially pH, and temperature. The reactivity of glass with water is the most important property determining the rate and quality of polishing of a glass surface (Izumitani, 1979), so the rate of hydration and condition of the surface after hydration are determining factors in polishing.

© 1984 Optical Society of America