Question

Compared to other packaging materials, lower resistance to fracturing and thermal shock is a disadvantage of which packaging material?

• A. Glass
• B. Plastic
• C. Metal
• D. Paper

Hint:

Glass containers require gradual temperature transitions during washing, hot-filling, and retorting to prevent thermal shock breakage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Different packaging materials exhibit specific mechanical and thermomechanical limitations during processing and handling.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Glass is an inorganic, amorphous, non-metallic solid possessing high compressive strength but very low tensile strength and high brittleness.
It is highly susceptible to mechanical impact fracturing and catastrophic failure under rapid temperature differentials (thermal shock $\Delta T > 30\text{--}40^\circ\text{C}$).
In contrast, metal and plastic materials provide high impact toughness and thermal shock resistance.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, low resistance to fracturing and thermal shock is a major disadvantage of glass.