Glass cups are typically made from inorganic silicate materials fired at high temperatures, with stable chemical compositions that do not generate harmful substances, making them the preferred choice for drinking water.
When selecting a glass cup, it is also important to note that there are different types of glass materials. Which material of glass cup is healthier for drinking water?
Soda Lime Glass Cup
Soda lime glass is generally thicker and heavier. It is fine for holding cold water, but extreme temperature changes can cause it to crack. If you must use it, you can pour some hot water into the cup first to warm it up.
Tempered Glass Cup
By further processing ordinary soda lime glass, tempered glass cups are produced. The tempering enhances the strength of the glass, making it less likely to break. The maximum temperature for use should not exceed 300℃.
Borosilicate Glass Cup
The primary components of borosilicate glass cups are boron trioxide and silica. They do not crack easily with sudden temperature changes. Even if accidentally shattered, the glass shards are relatively large and easy to clean, reducing the risk of injury.
Varieties of Borosilicate Glass Cups
Borosilicate glass cups are categorized into high, medium, and low borosilicate glass. The most common type is high borosilicate glass cups. High borosilicate glass can withstand temperature differentials of over 150℃, while low borosilicate glass can endure differentials of over 100℃.
Crystal Glass Cup
Crystal glass cups are typically visually appealing but pose the highest risk among glass cup varieties. They are generally divided into leaded and lead-free types.
Leaded Crystal Glass Cup
Leaded crystal glass cups involve the addition of lead, barium, and other metallic elements to the glass material. This enhances the brightness and transparency of the cup, making it resemble a natural crystal. When tapped, the cup produces a clear, ringing sound. However, prolonged use of leaded crystal cups with acidic beverages can lead to lead leaching into the acidic liquid, resulting in lead poisoning.
Lead-Free Glass Cup
Due to the hazards associated with lead, lead-free crystal glass has emerged. Compared to leaded crystal cups, lead-free crystal contains no lead elements and is thus harmless to the body. However, lead-free glass cups have poorer resistance to low temperatures and are susceptible to cold, potentially cracking if placed directly in the refrigerator.
