glassovergang

Glassovergang, also known as glass transition, is a phenomenon observed in amorphous materials, such as glasses and polymers, where the material transitions from a hard and brittle state to a more malleable, rubbery state. This transition occurs over a range of temperatures and is characterized by a significant change in the material's mechanical properties.

The glass transition temperature (Tg) is the temperature at which this transition occurs. Below Tg, the material is in a glassy state, exhibiting high viscosity and low thermal expansion. Above Tg, the material becomes more fluid, with lower viscosity and higher thermal expansion. The transition is not abrupt but rather a gradual process, making it difficult to pinpoint a specific temperature for the change.

The glass transition is influenced by various factors, including the molecular structure of the material, the rate of cooling, and the presence of plasticizers or other additives. The transition can be observed using techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).

Glassovergang is of significant importance in various fields, including materials science, polymer engineering, and pharmaceuticals. Understanding the glass transition and its associated properties is crucial for designing materials with desired mechanical and thermal characteristics. Additionally, the phenomenon plays a role in the aging and degradation of materials, as well as in the processing and manufacturing of glass and polymer products.