Weathering Mechanisms in Soda-Lime-Silica Glass and Evaluation of Protective Measures: a Review

Soda-lime-silica glass coatings' resilience to environmental degradation and durability have been thoroughly assessed, with a focus on the functions of hydrophobic, UV-blocking, scratch-resistant, and multipurpose coatings. According to statistical assessments, there are notable variations in durability, with hydrophobic coatings showing the shortest lifespan (6 months) and scratch-resistant coatings the longest (24 months). Strong chemical resistance is offered by hydrophobic coatings, however they deteriorate quickly in the presence of UV light and must be reapplied frequently (6–12 months). While scratch-resistant coatings are excellent at withstanding mechanical wear but provide little chemical protection, anti-UV coatings guard against photolytic damage and maintain transparency after extended exposure. Multifunctional coatings provide balanced performance by successfully fending against physical and chemical deterioration. Comparative studies show that multi-functional coatings handle a variety of environmental issues while maintaining a modest level of durability, whereas single-function coatings prioritize particular weathering mechanisms. Important drawbacks highlight a lack of long-lasting, adaptable coatings, such as frequent reapplication requirements, restricted multi-functionality, and inadequate long-term environmental testing. To ensure optimal performance in a variety of situations, future research should concentrate on improving multi-functional coating formulations and confirming lab-based discoveries through extensive real-world testing.