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{{Short description|Trademark for borosilicate glass}}
{{Short description|Brand of glassware}}
{{Distinguish|PUREX}}
{{Distinguish|PUREX}}
{{For-multi|the programming language|Pyrex (programming language)|the rapper|Pvrx}}
{{For-multi|the programming language|Pyrex (programming language)|the rapper|Pyrex (rapper)}}


[[File:Measuring cup.jpg|thumb|A PYREX [[measuring cup]] manufactured {{circa|1980}}, featuring graduations in both [[United States customary units|U.S.]] and [[Metric system|metric]] units]]
[[File:Pyrex 1-quart liquid measuring cup - DPLA - b07e5efc0a37cf693d74b366a3065c72.jpg|thumb|A PYREX 1-[[quart]] [[measuring cup]] manufactured after 1940, featuring graduations in [[United States customary units]]]]
[[File:Chocolate cake and ice cream.jpg|thumb|A pyrex plate manufactured in the 1960s.]]
'''Pyrex''' ([[trademark]]ed as ''PYREX'' and ''pyrex'') is a [[brand]] introduced by [[Corning Inc.]] in 1915, initially for a line of clear, low-thermal-expansion [[borosilicate glass]] used for [[laboratory glassware]] and [[kitchenware]]. It was later expanded in the 1930s to include kitchenware products made of [[soda–lime glass]] and other materials.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 24, 2014 |title=A CENTURY OF PYREX |url=https://www.cmog.org/article/pyrex |website=Corning Museum of Glass}}</ref> Its name has become famous for making rectangular glass roasters.


In 1998, the kitchenware division of Corning Inc. responsible for the development of Pyrex spun off from its parent company as Corning Consumer Products Company, subsequently renamed [[Corelle Brands]]. Corning Inc. no longer manufactures or markets consumer products, only industrial ones.
'''Pyrex''' ([[trademark]]ed as ''PYREX'' and ''pyrex'') is a [[brand]] of glassware originally developed by [[Corning Incorporated]]. Pyrex was first introduced in 1915 as a line of clear, low-thermal-expansion [[borosilicate glass]] whose resistance to chemicals, electricity, and heat made it ideal for [[laboratory glassware]] and [[kitchenware]]. In the 1930s Corning expanded the brand to include kitchen products made of [[soda–lime glass]] and other materials.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 24, 2014 |title=A CENTURY OF PYREX |url=https://www.cmog.org/article/pyrex |website=Corning Museum of Glass}}</ref>
 
In 1998, Corning Incorporated spun off its kitchenware division, including Pyrex cookware. Currently, Pyrex dishes are manufactured by [[Corelle Brands]] in the United States and International Cookware in Europe. Corning Incorporated continues to manufacture Pyrex scientific glassware.


== History ==
== History ==
[[File:Pyrex dish.jpg|thumb|alt=A clear, rectangular glass dish sitting on top of its original 1980s–1990s box.|PYREX glass roaster from Corning Inc.]]
===Corning Glass Works===
[[File:Pyrex newspaper ad 1922.png|thumb|upright|alt=A black and white advert for Pyrex entitled "You Really Can't Get Along Without This Pyrex Biscuit Dish".|Newspaper ad showing PYREX bakeware from 1922]]
[[File:American cookery (1915) (14804448223).jpg|thumb|upright|alt=A black and white advert for Pyrex entitled "You Really Can't Get Along Without This Pyrex Biscuit Dish".|1915 Pyrex advertisement]]


[[Borosilicate glass]] was first made by German chemist and glass technologist [[Otto Schott]], founder of [[Schott AG]] in 1893, 22 years before Corning produced the Pyrex brand. Schott AG sells the product under the name "Duran".
[[Borosilicate glass]] was first made by German chemist and glass technologist [[Otto Schott]], founder of [[Schott AG]] in 1893.


In 1908, Eugene Sullivan, director of research at [[Corning Inc.|Corning Glass Works]], developed Nonex, a borosilicate low-expansion glass, to reduce breakage in shock-resistant lantern globes and battery jars. Sullivan had learned about Schott's borosilicate glass as a doctoral student in [[Leipzig]], [[Germany]]. Jesse Littleton of Corning discovered the cooking potential of borosilicate glass by giving his wife Bessie Littleton a casserole dish made from a cut-down Nonex battery jar. Corning removed the [[lead]] from Nonex and developed it as a consumer product.<ref name="IDSAQuote">[http://www.industrialdesignhistory.com/node/137 Corning Pyrex Bakeware], Carroll M. Gantz, Design Chronicles: Significant Mass-produced Designs of the 20th Century, Schiffer Publications, Ltd. 2005</ref> Pyrex made its public debut in 1915 during [[World War I]], positioned as an American-produced alternative to Duran.
In 1908, Eugene Sullivan, director of research at [[Corning Inc.|Corning Glass Works]], developed Nonex, a borosilicate low-expansion glass, to reduce breakage in shock-resistant lantern globes and battery jars. Sullivan had learned about Schott's borosilicate glass as a doctoral student in [[Leipzig]], [[Germany]].<ref name="IDSAQuote">[http://www.industrialdesignhistory.com/node/137 Corning Pyrex Bakeware], Carroll M. Gantz, Design Chronicles: Significant Mass-produced Designs of the 20th Century, Schiffer Publications, Ltd. 2005</ref>


A Corning executive gave the following account of the [[etymology]] of the name "Pyrex":
[[File:Erlenmeyer flask ben.jpg|thumb|left|A series of Pyrex [[Erlenmeyer flask]]s]]


{{blockquote|The word PYREX is probably a purely arbitrary word which was devised in 1915 as a trade-mark for products manufactured and sold by Corning Glass Works. While some people have thought that it was made up from the [[Greek language|Greek]] [[wikt:πῦρ|{{transliteration|grc|pyr}}]] and the [[Latin]] {{lang|la|rex}}, we have always taken the position that no graduate of [[Harvard University|Harvard]] would be guilty of such a classical [[hybrid word|hybrid]]. Actually, we had a number of prior trade-marks ending in the letters ''ex''. One of the first commercial products to be sold under the new mark was a pie plate, and in the interests of [[euphonism]] the letter r was inserted between ''pie'' and ''ex'' and the whole thing condensed to PYREX.<ref>{{cite journal | journal = [[American Speech]] | volume = 32 | issue = 4 | year = 1957 | page = 290 | title = title unknown | last = Mathews | first = MM}}</ref>}}
Jesse Littleton of Corning discovered the cooking potential of borosilicate glass by giving his wife Bessie Littleton a casserole dish made from a cut-down Nonex battery jar. Corning removed the [[lead]] from Nonex and developed it as a consumer product.<ref name="IDSAQuote"/> Pyrex made its public debut in 1915 during [[World War I]] and was positioned as an American-made alternative to Duran.


Corning purchased the [[Macbeth-Evans Glass Company]] in 1936 and their Charleroi, PA plant was used to produce Pyrex opal ware bowls and bakeware made of tempered soda–lime glass.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macbeth-Evans Glass Company {{!}} ArchivesSpace Public Interface |url=https://archivesspace.cmog.org/agents/corporate_entities/20 |access-date=2022-10-16 |website=archivesspace.cmog.org}}</ref> In 1958 an internal design department was started by John B. Ward. He redesigned the Pyrex ovenware and Flameware. Over the years, designers such as [[Penny Sparke]], Betty Baugh, Smart Design, TEAMS Design, and others have contributed to the design of the line.
The material was initially marketed for pie pans and advertised as "Pie Right" or "Py-Right", but the name was eventually changed to Pyrex to rhyme with Nonex.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=William B. |first1=Jensen |title=The Origin of Pyrex |journal=Journal of Chemical Education |date=May 2006 |volume=83 |issue=5 |page=692 |doi=10.1021/ed083p692 |url=https://ia600108.us.archive.org/view_archive.php?archive=/24/items/wikipedia-scholarly-sources-corpus/10.1021%252Fcr990402t.zip&file=10.1021%252Fed083p692.pdf}}</ref>


[[File:Pyrex3 (2).jpg|alt=A white oval dish decorated with stylized orange, red and black flowers with a clear lid.|thumb|Pyrex casserole dish with the 'Toledo' pattern]]
Corning purchased the [[Macbeth-Evans Glass Company]] in 1936 and their [[Charleroi, Pennsylvania]], plant was used to produce Pyrex opal ware bowls and bakeware made of tempered soda–lime glass.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macbeth-Evans Glass Company {{!}} ArchivesSpace Public Interface |url=https://archivesspace.cmog.org/agents/corporate_entities/20 |access-date=2022-10-16 |website=archivesspace.cmog.org}}</ref> In 1958 an internal design department was started by John B. Ward. He redesigned the Pyrex ovenware and Flameware. Over the years, designers such as [[Penny Sparke]], [[Betty Baugh]], Smart Design, TEAMS Design, and others have contributed to the design of the line.


Corning divested itself of the Corning Consumer Products Company (now known as [[Corelle Brands]]) in 1998 and production of consumer Pyrex products went with it. Its previous licensing of the name to [[Newell Rubbermaid|Newell Cookware Europe]] remained in effect.<ref name="History">{{cite web |url=http://www.pyrexware.com/thetruthaboutpyrex/manu.htm |title=Manufacturing History |publisher=Pyrex Products  
===Corelle Brands===
In 1998 Corning Incorporated divested itself of its consumer products division, which was renamed World Kitchen in 2000, and [[Corelle Brands]] in 2018.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.the-leader.com/article/20140616/news/140619641| title=World Kitchen plans layoffs at Corning plant| last=Ek| first=Derrick| newspaper=[[The Leader (Corning)|The Leader]]| location=Corning NY| access-date=2021-02-12| language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.kitchenwarenews.com/world-kitchen-changes-name-corelle-brands/| title=World Kitchen Changes Name to Corelle Brands| journal=Kitchenware News| date=February 5, 2018| language=en| access-date=2021-02-12}}</ref> Corelle took over production of Pyrex and other [[Corningware]] products in the United States.<ref name="History">{{cite web |url=http://www.pyrexware.com/thetruthaboutpyrex/manu.htm |title=Manufacturing History |publisher=Pyrex Products  
|access-date=5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002090834/http://www.pyrexware.com/thetruthaboutpyrex/manu.htm|archive-date=2 October 2011}}</ref>
|access-date=5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002090834/http://www.pyrexware.com/thetruthaboutpyrex/manu.htm|archive-date=2 October 2011}}</ref>


France-based cookware maker [[Arc International]] acquired Newell's European business in early 2006<ref name="hoovers">{{cite web | url = http://www.hoovers.com/arc-international/--ID__103296--/free-co-factsheet.xhtml | title = Arc International page |publisher = [[Hoover's]] | access-date = 5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929140533/http://www.hoovers.com/arc-international/--ID__103296--/free-co-factsheet.xhtml|archive-date=29 September 2007}}</ref> to own rights to the brand in [[Europe]], the [[Middle East]] and [[Africa]].<ref>{{cite book | isbn = 978-1-84685-556-6 | title = The Little Book of Collectable British Pyrex | first = Susan | last = Hibberd | publisher = Exposure Publishing | year = 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.arc-international-cookware.com/en_Glass_Ovenware.html | title = Glass Ovenware | publisher = [[Arc International]] | access-date = 2008-03-17 | year = 2005 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080311222706/http://www.arc-international-cookware.com/en_Glass_Ovenware.html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 2008-03-11}}</ref> In 2007, Arc closed the Pyrex soda–lime factory in [[Sunderland]], UK moving all European production to France. The Sunderland factory had first started making Pyrex in 1922.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/insideout/northeast/series11/week7_pyrex.shtml|title=BBC Inside Out -|website=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref>
In 2019 Corelle Brands merged with Instant Brands, the makers of the [[Instant Pot]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gottfried |first=Miriam |date=March 3, 2019 |title=Owners of Instant Pot, Corelle to Merge; Combined company would have enterprise value of more than $2 billion |work=The Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/owners-of-instant-pot-corelle-to-merge-11551654000 |access-date=June 23, 2023}}</ref> The combined company filed for [[Chapter 11 bankruptcy]] in 2023 after high interest rates and waning access to credit hit its cash position and made its debts unsustainable.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/instant-pot-pyrex-maker-instant-204114763.html|title=Instant Pot and Pyrex Maker Instant Brands Files for Bankruptcy|date=June 12, 2023|access-date=June 12, 2023|website=Yahoo Finance|language=en}}</ref> The company emerged from bankruptcy after the appliance portion (Instant Brands) and the housewares portion (Corelle Brands) of the business were separately purchased by private equity firm Centre Lane Partners, one of the largest stockholders in Pyrex rival [[Anchor Hocking]].<ref>{{Cite press release |last=Brands |first=Instant |title=Instant Brands Provides Update on Sale Process for its Appliance Business |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/instant-brands-provides-update-on-sale-process-for-its-appliance-business-301982393.html |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=www.prnewswire.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-01 |title=Instant Brands emerges from chapter 11 as Corelle Brands {{!}} Davis Polk |url=https://www.davispolk.com/experience/instant-brands-emerges-chapter-11-corelle-brands |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=www.davispolk.com |language=en}}</ref>


In 2014, [[Arc International]] sold off its Arc International Cookware division which operated the Pyrex business to Aurora Capital for its Resurgence Fund II. The division was renamed the International Cookware group.<ref>{{Cite press release|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aurora-capital-group-completes-acquisition-of-arc-international-cookware-243487371.html|title=Aurora Capital Group Completes Acquisition of Arc International Cookware |website=PR Newswire}}</ref> London-based [[private equity]] firm Kartesia<ref>{{cite web |title=Jaime Prieto - Kartesia |url=https://informaconnect.com/superreturn-international/speakers/jaime-prieto/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=informaconnect.com |language=en}}</ref> purchased International Cookware in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |title=Aurora Resurgence has sold International Cookware to Kartesia |url=https://www.lincolninternational.com/transactions/aurora-resurgence-has-sold-international-cookware-to-kartesia/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Lincoln International LLC |language=en}}</ref>
After the purchase was finalized in early 2024, Centre Lane transferred ownership of Corelle to Anchor Hocking. This arrangement came into public awareness later in the year after Anchor Hocking announced that they planned to close Pyrex's 132-year old factory in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, and relocate production to Anchor Hocking's factory in [[Lancaster, Ohio]].<ref name = USD>{{cite web |title=Case 2:24-cv-01501-NR |url=https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-pawd-2_24-cv-01501/pdf/USCOURTS-pawd-2_24-cv-01501-0.pdf |website=govinfo.gov |publisher=United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania|date=November 14, 2024}}</ref> Senators [[Bob Casey Jr.]] and [[John Fetterman]] each criticized the move and demanded an explanation for how the merger of two major competitors was able to proceed without [[Federal Trade Commission]] oversight.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Anselmo |first1=Joelle |title=Pennsylvania glass plant closure sparks outrage |url=https://www.manufacturingdive.com/news/anchor-hocking-charleroi-pennsylvania-glass-pyrex-plant-closure-senators/728703/ |work=Manufacturing Dive |publisher=Informa TechTarget |date=October 7, 2024}}</ref>


In 2021, Pyrex rival [[Duralex]] was acquired by International Cookware group for €3.5 million (US$4.2m).<ref>{{Cite web |last=AFP |date=2021-01-29 |title=French glassmaker Duralex purchased by rival |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1604250 |access-date=2021-01-29 |website=DAWN.COM |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Pyrex completes acquisition of Duralex |url=https://www.glass-international.com/news/pyrex-completes-acquisition-of-duralex |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Glass International |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Whitten |first1=Zoe |date=31 January 2021 |title=International Cookware, Pyrex's parent company, takes over Duralex |url=https://www.glassonline.com/international-cookware-pyrexs-parent-company-takes-over-duralex/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Glass Online}}</ref>
A lawsuit by the [[State of Pennsylvania]] against Centre Lane Partners that attempted to halt the factory closure was dismissed by a federal judge.<ref name = USD/> After months of uncertainty and multiple temporary closures, Anchor Hocking permanently closed the Charleroi factory in April 2025.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Wells |first1=Anna |title=132-Year-Old Pyrex Plant Closes for Good After Four Shutdown Delays |url=https://www.ien.com/video/video/22938488/132yearold-pyrex-plant-closes-for-good-after-four-shutdown-delays |work=Industrial Equipment News |publisher=Industrial Media, LLC |date=April 14, 2025}}</ref>


In March 2019, Corelle Brands, the makers of Pyrex in the United States, merged with Instant Brands, the makers of the [[Instant Pot]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gottfried |first=Miriam |date=March 3, 2019 |title=Owners of Instant Pot, Corelle to Merge; Combined company would have enterprise value of more than $2 billion |work=The Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/owners-of-instant-pot-corelle-to-merge-11551654000 |access-date=June 23, 2023}}</ref> On June 12, 2023, Instant Brands filed for [[Chapter 11 bankruptcy]] after high interest rates and waning access to credit hit its cash position and made its debts unsustainable.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/instant-pot-pyrex-maker-instant-204114763.html|title=Instant Pot and Pyrex Maker Instant Brands Files for Bankruptcy|date=June 12, 2023|access-date=June 12, 2023|website=Yahoo Finance|language=en}}</ref> The company emerged from bankruptcy on February 27, 2024 under the previous Corelle Brands moniker, after having sold off its appliance business ("Instant" branded products).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brands |first=Instant |title=Instant Brands Provides Update on Sale Process for its Appliance Business |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/instant-brands-provides-update-on-sale-process-for-its-appliance-business-301982393.html |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=www.prnewswire.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-01 |title=Instant Brands emerges from chapter 11 as Corelle Brands {{!}} Davis Polk |url=https://www.davispolk.com/experience/instant-brands-emerges-chapter-11-corelle-brands |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=www.davispolk.com |language=en}}</ref>
===European history===
After Corning Incorporated divested itself of its consumer products division in 1998, [[Newell Rubbermaid|Newell Cookware Europe]] retained its license to produce Pyrex in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
 
France-based cookware maker [[Arc International]] acquired Newell's European business in early 2006<ref name="hoovers">{{cite web | url = http://www.hoovers.com/arc-international/--ID__103296--/free-co-factsheet.xhtml | title = Arc International page |publisher = [[Hoover's]] | access-date = 5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929140533/http://www.hoovers.com/arc-international/--ID__103296--/free-co-factsheet.xhtml|archive-date=29 September 2007}}</ref> to own rights to the brand in [[Europe]], the [[Middle East]] and [[Africa]].<ref>{{cite book | isbn = 978-1-84685-556-6 | title = The Little Book of Collectable British Pyrex | first = Susan | last = Hibberd | publisher = Exposure Publishing | year = 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.arc-international-cookware.com/en_Glass_Ovenware.html | title = Glass Ovenware | publisher = [[Arc International]] | access-date = 2008-03-17 | year = 2005 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080311222706/http://www.arc-international-cookware.com/en_Glass_Ovenware.html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 2008-03-11}}</ref> In 2007, Arc closed the Pyrex soda–lime factory in [[Sunderland]], UK moving all European production to France. The Sunderland factory had first started making Pyrex in 1922.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/insideout/northeast/series11/week7_pyrex.shtml|title=BBC Inside Out -|website=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref>
 
Arc International sold off its Arc International Cookware division including Pyrex business in 2014, and the division was subsequently renamed the International Cookware group.<ref>{{Cite press release|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aurora-capital-group-completes-acquisition-of-arc-international-cookware-243487371.html|title=Aurora Capital Group Completes Acquisition of Arc International Cookware |website=PR Newswire}}</ref> London-based [[private equity]] firm Kartesia<ref>{{cite web |title=Jaime Prieto - Kartesia |url=https://informaconnect.com/superreturn-international/speakers/jaime-prieto/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=informaconnect.com |language=en}}</ref> purchased International Cookware in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |title=Aurora Resurgence has sold International Cookware to Kartesia |url=https://www.lincolninternational.com/transactions/aurora-resurgence-has-sold-international-cookware-to-kartesia/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Lincoln International LLC |language=en}}</ref>
 
In 2021, International Cookware acquired Pyrex rival [[Duralex]] for €3.5 million (US$4.2m).<ref>{{Cite web |last=AFP |date=2021-01-29 |title=French glassmaker Duralex purchased by rival |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1604250 |access-date=2021-01-29 |website=DAWN.COM |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Pyrex completes acquisition of Duralex |url=https://www.glass-international.com/news/pyrex-completes-acquisition-of-duralex |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Glass International |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Whitten |first1=Zoe |date=31 January 2021 |title=International Cookware, Pyrex's parent company, takes over Duralex |url=https://www.glassonline.com/international-cookware-pyrexs-parent-company-takes-over-duralex/ |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=Glass Online}}</ref>


== Trademark ==
== Trademark ==
In [[Europe]], [[Africa]], and the [[Middle East]], a variation of the '''PYREX''' (all uppercase) trademark is licensed by [[International Cookware]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kartesia participates in the {{as written|aqu|isition [sic]}} of International Cookware, the leading kitchenware manufacturer under the Pyrex® brand in EMEA |url=https://www.kartesia.com/newsroom/new_deal_international_cookware |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.kartesia.com |language=en}}</ref> for bakeware that has been made of numerous materials including borosilicate and soda–lime glass, stoneware, metal, plus vitroceramic cookware.<ref>{{Cite web |last=EU |first=Pyrex® Webshop |title=Pyrex® Webshop EU |url=https://www.pyrex.eu/ |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=Pyrex® Webshop EU |language=en}}</ref> The '''pyrex''' (all lowercase, introduced in 1975<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Pyrex 1975 Dealer Catalog. Corning, N.Y: Corning Glass Works |url=https://cmog.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/fulldisplay?&context=L&vid=01CORNING_INST:01CORNING_INST&search_scope=MyInstitution&tab=ALWAYS_DISPLAY&docid=alma991233953504126 |access-date=2022-11-20 |website=cmog.primo.exlibrisgroup.com |language=en}}</ref>) trademark is now used for kitchenware sold in the [[United States]], [[South America]], and [[Asia]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shop Pyrex Kitchenware {{!}} Official Website {{!}} Pyrex |url=https://www.pyrexhome.com/ |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.pyrexhome.com}}</ref> In the past, the brand name has also been used for kitchen utensils and bakeware by other companies in regions such as Japan and Australia.
Pyrex remains a trademark of Corning Incorporated, but is licensed by dinnerware manufacturers.<ref name = pvp>{{cite web |title=PYREX vs. pyrex: What's the Difference? |url=https://www.corning.com/worldwide/en/products/life-sciences/resources/stories/in-the-field/pyrex-vs-pyrex-whats-the-difference.html |website=corning.com |publisher=Corning Incorporated |access-date=4 December 2025}}</ref>
 
[[File:Pyrex - Logo.svg|thumb|Pyrex logo as used by Corelle]]
 
Corning Incorporated continues to manufacture '''PYREX''' (all uppercase) laboratory glassware for international markets.<ref name = pvp/> The '''pyrex''' (all lowercase, introduced in 1975<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Pyrex 1975 Dealer Catalog. Corning, N.Y: Corning Glass Works |url=https://cmog.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/fulldisplay?&context=L&vid=01CORNING_INST:01CORNING_INST&search_scope=MyInstitution&tab=ALWAYS_DISPLAY&docid=alma991233953504126 |access-date=2022-11-20 |website=cmog.primo.exlibrisgroup.com |language=en}}</ref>) trademark is now used for kitchenware sold in the [[United States]], [[South America]], and [[Asia]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shop Pyrex Kitchenware {{!}} Official Website {{!}} Pyrex |url=https://www.pyrexhome.com/ |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.pyrexhome.com}}</ref>


It is a common misconception that the logo style alone indicates the type of glass used to manufacture the bakeware.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-02-18 |title=How are MacBeth-Evans and Monax related to Opal Pyrex and Corelle? - Dates & Details for Collectors of Corelle, Pyrex, Corning Ware & Centura |url=http://www.corellecorner.com/company-history/114-macbeth-evans-monax-opal-pyrex-corelle.html |access-date=2023-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218040546/http://www.corellecorner.com/company-history/114-macbeth-evans-monax-opal-pyrex-corelle.html |archive-date=2015-02-18 }}</ref> Additionally, Corning's introduction of soda-lime-glass-based Pyrex in the 1940s predates the introduction of the all lowercase logo by nearly 30 years.<ref name="Aikins" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-27 |title=That Viral 'PYREX' Brand Hack Is Horseshit, Folks |url=https://lifehacker.com/that-viral-pyrex-brand-hack-is-horseshit-folks-1850157381 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Lifehacker |language=en}}</ref> Nevertheless, all "pyrex" manufactured since 1998 in the United States is soda-lime glass,<ref>https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/how-pyrex-reinvented-glass-new-age-180955513/</ref> while all French-made "PYREX" glassware is borosilicate.<ref>https://www.pyrex.eu/en-eu/pages/history</ref>
[[File:Pyrex-logo-with-shadow-3.jpg|thumb|Pyrex logo as used by International Cookware]]
 
In [[Europe]], [[Africa]], and the [[Middle East]], a variation of the PYREX (all uppercase) trademark is licensed by International Cookware<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kartesia participates in the {{as written|aqu|isition [sic]}} of International Cookware, the leading kitchenware manufacturer under the Pyrex® brand in EMEA |url=https://www.kartesia.com/newsroom/new_deal_international_cookware |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.kartesia.com |language=en}}</ref> for bakeware that has been made of numerous materials including borosilicate and soda–lime glass, stoneware, metal, plus vitroceramic cookware.<ref>{{Cite web |last=EU |first=Pyrex® Webshop |title=Pyrex® Webshop EU |url=https://www.pyrex.eu/ |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=Pyrex® Webshop EU |language=en}}</ref>
 
It is a common misconception that the logo style alone indicates the type of glass used to manufacture the bakeware.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-02-18 |title=How are MacBeth-Evans and Monax related to Opal Pyrex and Corelle? - Dates & Details for Collectors of Corelle, Pyrex, Corning Ware & Centura |url=http://www.corellecorner.com/company-history/114-macbeth-evans-monax-opal-pyrex-corelle.html |access-date=2023-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218040546/http://www.corellecorner.com/company-history/114-macbeth-evans-monax-opal-pyrex-corelle.html |archive-date=2015-02-18 }}</ref> In reality, Corning's introduction of soda-lime-glass-based Pyrex in the 1940s predates the introduction of the all lowercase logo by nearly 30 years.<ref name="Aikins" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-27 |title=That Viral 'PYREX' Brand Hack Is Horseshit, Folks |url=https://lifehacker.com/that-viral-pyrex-brand-hack-is-horseshit-folks-1850157381 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Lifehacker |language=en}}</ref>  


== Composition ==
== Composition ==
[[File:Pyrex and PYREX.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Two clear measuring jugs featuring red text. The jug on the right is wider than the jug on the left.| A clear tempered ''pyrex'' soda–lime glass measuring cup produced by Instant Brands (left, differentiated by its different logo and bluish tint), and a clear borosilicate glass ''PYREX'' measuring cup produced by Corning (right)]]
[[File:Pyrex and PYREX.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Two clear measuring jugs featuring red text. The jug on the right is wider than the jug on the left.| A clear tempered ''pyrex'' soda–lime glass measuring jug produced by Instant Brands (left, differentiated by its different logo and bluish tint), and a clear borosilicate glass ''PYREX'' measuring jug produced by Corning (right)]]


Older clear-glass Pyrex manufactured by Corning, Arc International's Pyrex products, and Pyrex [[laboratory glassware]] are made of borosilicate glass. According to the [[National Institute of Standards and Technology]], borosilicate Pyrex is composed of (as percentage of weight): 4.0% [[boron]], 54.0% [[oxygen]], 2.8% [[sodium]], 1.1% [[aluminium]], 37.7% [[silicon]], and 0.3% [[potassium]].<ref>{{cite web | publisher = [[National Institute of Standards and Technology]]  | title = Composition of Pyrex Glass |access-date = September 8, 2016 | url = http://physics.nist.gov/cgi-bin/Star/compos.pl?matno=169}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | publisher = MadeHow.com | title = How Pyrex is Made | date = n.d. | url = http://www.madehow.com/Volume-7/Pyrex.html}}</ref>
Older clear-glass Pyrex manufactured by Corning, Arc International's Pyrex products, and Pyrex laboratory glassware are made of borosilicate glass. According to the [[National Institute of Standards and Technology]], borosilicate Pyrex is composed of (as percentage of weight): 4.0% [[boron]], 54.0% [[oxygen]], 2.8% [[sodium]], 1.1% [[aluminium]], 37.7% [[silicon]], and 0.3% [[potassium]].<ref>{{cite web | publisher = [[National Institute of Standards and Technology]]  | title = Composition of Pyrex Glass |access-date = September 8, 2016 | url = http://physics.nist.gov/cgi-bin/Star/compos.pl?matno=169}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | publisher = MadeHow.com | title = How Pyrex is Made | date = n.d. | url = http://www.madehow.com/Volume-7/Pyrex.html}}</ref>


According to glass supplier Pulles and Hannique, borosilicate Pyrex is made of Corning 7740 glass and is equivalent in formulation to [[Schott Glass]] 8330 glass sold under the "Duran" brand name.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pulleshanique.com/02_borosilicate-glass.htm | title = Borosilicate glass | access-date = 5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315092729/http://www.pulleshanique.com/02_borosilicate-glass.htm|archive-date=15 March 2012}}</ref> The composition of both Corning 7740 and Schott 8330 is given as 80.6% {{chem2|SiO2|link=silicon dioxide}}, 12.6% {{chem2|B2O3|link=boron trioxide}}, 4.2% {{chem2|Na2O|link=sodium oxide}}, 2.2% {{chem2|Al2O3|link=aluminium oxide}}, 0.1% {{chem2|CaO|link=calcium oxide}}, 0.1% {{chem2|Cl|link=chlorine}}, 0.05% {{chem2|MgO|link=magnesium oxide}}, and 0.04% {{chem2|Fe2O3|link=iron(III) oxide}}.
According to glass supplier Pulles and Hannique, borosilicate Pyrex is made of Corning 7740 glass and is equivalent in formulation to [[Schott Glass]] 8330 glass sold under the "Duran" brand name.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pulleshanique.com/02_borosilicate-glass.htm | title = Borosilicate glass | access-date = 5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315092729/http://www.pulleshanique.com/02_borosilicate-glass.htm|archive-date=15 March 2012}}</ref> The composition of both Corning 7740 and Schott 8330 is given as 80.6% {{chem2|SiO2|link=silicon dioxide}}, 12.6% {{chem2|B2O3|link=boron trioxide}}, 4.2% {{chem2|Na2O|link=sodium oxide}}, 2.2% {{chem2|Al2O3|link=aluminium oxide}}, 0.1% {{chem2|CaO|link=calcium oxide}}, 0.1% {{chem2|Cl|link=chlorine}}, 0.05% {{chem2|MgO|link=magnesium oxide}}, and 0.04% {{chem2|Fe2O3|link=iron(III) oxide}}.
Line 59: Line 75:
Because of its low expansion characteristics, borosilicate glass is often the material of choice for reflective optics in astronomy applications.
Because of its low expansion characteristics, borosilicate glass is often the material of choice for reflective optics in astronomy applications.


In 1932, [[George Ellery Hale]] approached [[Corning Incorporated|Corning]] with the challenge of fabricating the {{convert|200|in|m|adj=on}} telescope mirror for the [[California Institute of Technology]]'s [[Palomar Observatory]] project.<ref name=glassgiant>{{cite web|title=The Glass Giant|url=http://www.cmog.org/article/glass-giant|website=Corning Museum of Glass|access-date=30 January 2015}}</ref> A previous effort to fabricate the optic from [[fused quartz]] had failed, with the cast blank having voids. The mirror was cast by Corning during 1934–1936 out of borosilicate glass.<ref name = Caltech>{{cite web|title=A History of Palomar Observatory|url=http://www.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/about/history.html|website=Palomar Observatory|publisher=California Institute of Technology|access-date=5 June 2015|date=28 May 2015}}</ref> After a year of cooling, during which it was almost lost to a flood, the blank was completed in 1935. The first blank now resides in the [[Corning Museum of Glass]].<ref>{{cite web|title=200-inch Disk|url=http://www.cmog.org/artwork/200-inch-disk |publisher=Corning Museum of Glass|access-date=30 January 2015}}</ref>
In 1932, [[George Ellery Hale]] approached [[Corning Incorporated|Corning]] with the challenge of fabricating the {{convert|200|in|m|adj=on}} telescope mirror for the [[California Institute of Technology]]'s [[Palomar Observatory]] project.<ref name="glassgiant">{{cite web |title=The Glass Giant |url=http://www.cmog.org/article/glass-giant |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160120080037/http://www.cmog.org/article/glass-giant |archive-date=2016-01-20 |access-date=30 January 2015 |website=Corning Museum of Glass}}</ref> A previous effort to fabricate the optic from [[fused quartz]] had failed, with the cast blank having voids. The mirror was cast by Corning during 1934–1936 out of borosilicate glass.<ref name = Caltech>{{cite web|title=A History of Palomar Observatory|url=http://www.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/about/history.html|website=Palomar Observatory|publisher=California Institute of Technology|access-date=5 June 2015|date=28 May 2015}}</ref> After a year of cooling, during which it was almost lost to a flood, the blank was completed in 1935. The first blank now resides in the [[Corning Museum of Glass]].<ref>{{cite web|title=200-inch Disk|url=https://glasscollection.cmog.org/objects/41284/200inch-disk|publisher=Corning Museum of Glass|access-date=30 January 2015}}</ref>
 
==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed">
File:Chocolate cake and ice cream.jpg|A Pyrex plate manufactured in the 1960s
File:Pyrex dish.jpg|A vintage Pyrex roaster
File:Pyrexette Kit.jpg|A 1925 Pyrex glass baking dish set for children
File:Pyrex3 (2).jpg|alt=A white oval dish decorated with stylized orange, red and black flowers with a clear lid.|Pyrex casserole dish with the 'Toledo' pattern
File:Museum of Glass Pyrex exhibit - panoramio.jpg|Pyrex exhibit in the [[Corning Museum of Glass]]
</gallery>


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Jena glass]]
* [[Jena glass]]
* [[Borosilicate glass]]
* [[Gorilla Glass]]
{{Clear}}
{{Clear}}


Line 69: Line 97:


== General and cited references ==
== General and cited references ==
* {{Cite journal |last1=Bradt |first1=R. C. |last2=Martens |first2=R. L. |date=September 2012 |title=Shattering Glass Cookware |url=https://bulletin-archive.ceramics.org/is-cacheable/1605850352249/ucuifj.pdf |url-access=subscription |format=PDF |journal=American Ceramic Society Bulletin |volume=91 |issue=7 |pages=35–41 |issn=0002-7812 |oclc=302290362 |access-date=15 March 2024}}
* {{Cite journal |last1=Bradt |first1=R. C. |last2=Martens |first2=R. L. |date=September 2012 |title=Shattering Glass Cookware |url=https://bulletin-archive.ceramics.org/is-cacheable/1605850352249/ucuifj.pdf |url-access=subscription |journal=American Ceramic Society Bulletin |volume=91 |issue=7 |pages=35–41 |issn=0002-7812 |oclc=302290362 |access-date=15 March 2024}}
** {{Cite press release |last=DeGuire |first=Ellen |date=September 11, 2012 |title=New Paper Addresses Causes of Shattering Glass Cookware; Margin of Safety Described as 'Borderline' |url=http://ceramics.org/uncategorized/new-paper-addresses-causes-of-shattering-glass-cookware |publisher=[[American Ceramic Society]] |access-date=2012-09-17 |quote=Their investigation confirmed the borosilicate glass would withstand a much larger rapid temperature change. According to their calculation and those of others, soda lime glass cookware shatters more frequently because, in theory, it can only resist fracture stress for temperature differentials less than about 55&nbsp;°C (99&nbsp;°F). In contrast, they estimate that the borosilicate glassware could tolerate a temperature differential of about 183&nbsp;°C (330&nbsp;°F), a three-fold difference.}}
** {{Cite press release |last=DeGuire |first=Ellen |date=September 11, 2012 |title=New Paper Addresses Causes of Shattering Glass Cookware; Margin of Safety Described as 'Borderline' |url=http://ceramics.org/uncategorized/new-paper-addresses-causes-of-shattering-glass-cookware |publisher=[[American Ceramic Society]] |access-date=2012-09-17 |quote=Their investigation confirmed the borosilicate glass would withstand a much larger rapid temperature change. According to their calculation and those of others, soda lime glass cookware shatters more frequently because, in theory, it can only resist fracture stress for temperature differentials less than about 55&nbsp;°C (99&nbsp;°F). In contrast, they estimate that the borosilicate glassware could tolerate a temperature differential of about 183&nbsp;°C (330&nbsp;°F), a three-fold difference.}}
* {{Cite book |last=Gantz |first=Carroll |year=2001 |title=Design Chronicles: Significant Mass-produced Products of the 20th Century |location=Atglen, PA |publisher=Schiffer Publishing |isbn=978-0-7643-2223-5 |oclc=58729534}}
* {{Cite book |last=Gantz |first=Carroll |year=2001 |title=Design Chronicles: Significant Mass-produced Products of the 20th Century |location=Atglen, PA |publisher=Schiffer Publishing |isbn=978-0-7643-2223-5 |oclc=58729534}}
* {{Cite book |last1=Rogove |first1=Susan Tobier |first2=Marcia B.|last2=Steinhauer |year=1993 |title=Pyrex by Corning: A Collector's Guide |location=Marietta, Ohio |publisher=Antique Publications |isbn=0-915410-94-X |oclc=28440879}}
* {{Cite book |last1=Rogove |first1=Susan Tobier |first2=Marcia B.|last2=Steinhauer |year=1993 |title=Pyrex by Corning: A Collector's Guide |location=Marietta, Ohio |publisher=Antique Publications |isbn=0-915410-94-X |oclc=28440879}}
* {{Cite book |last1=Rogove |first=Susan Tobier |year=2016 |title=More Pyrex by Corning: A Collector's Guide |others=Photography: Jay Kogut Photography |location=Pennsauken, NJ |publisher=BookBaby |isbn=978-1-4835-8646-5 |oclc=963732418}}
* {{Cite book |last1=Rogove |first1=Susan Tobier |year=2016 |title=More Pyrex by Corning: A Collector's Guide |others=Photography: Jay Kogut Photography |location=Pennsauken, NJ |publisher=BookBaby |isbn=978-1-4835-8646-5 |oclc=963732418}}


== External links ==
== External links ==

Latest revision as of 12:32, 27 December 2025

Template:Short description Script error: No such module "Distinguish". Template:For-multi

File:Pyrex 1-quart liquid measuring cup - DPLA - b07e5efc0a37cf693d74b366a3065c72.jpg
A PYREX 1-quart measuring cup manufactured after 1940, featuring graduations in United States customary units

Pyrex (trademarked as PYREX and pyrex) is a brand of glassware originally developed by Corning Incorporated. Pyrex was first introduced in 1915 as a line of clear, low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass whose resistance to chemicals, electricity, and heat made it ideal for laboratory glassware and kitchenware. In the 1930s Corning expanded the brand to include kitchen products made of soda–lime glass and other materials.[1]

In 1998, Corning Incorporated spun off its kitchenware division, including Pyrex cookware. Currently, Pyrex dishes are manufactured by Corelle Brands in the United States and International Cookware in Europe. Corning Incorporated continues to manufacture Pyrex scientific glassware.

History

Corning Glass Works

A black and white advert for Pyrex entitled "You Really Can't Get Along Without This Pyrex Biscuit Dish".
1915 Pyrex advertisement

Borosilicate glass was first made by German chemist and glass technologist Otto Schott, founder of Schott AG in 1893.

In 1908, Eugene Sullivan, director of research at Corning Glass Works, developed Nonex, a borosilicate low-expansion glass, to reduce breakage in shock-resistant lantern globes and battery jars. Sullivan had learned about Schott's borosilicate glass as a doctoral student in Leipzig, Germany.[2]

File:Erlenmeyer flask ben.jpg
A series of Pyrex Erlenmeyer flasks

Jesse Littleton of Corning discovered the cooking potential of borosilicate glass by giving his wife Bessie Littleton a casserole dish made from a cut-down Nonex battery jar. Corning removed the lead from Nonex and developed it as a consumer product.[2] Pyrex made its public debut in 1915 during World War I and was positioned as an American-made alternative to Duran.

The material was initially marketed for pie pans and advertised as "Pie Right" or "Py-Right", but the name was eventually changed to Pyrex to rhyme with Nonex.[3]

Corning purchased the Macbeth-Evans Glass Company in 1936 and their Charleroi, Pennsylvania, plant was used to produce Pyrex opal ware bowls and bakeware made of tempered soda–lime glass.[4] In 1958 an internal design department was started by John B. Ward. He redesigned the Pyrex ovenware and Flameware. Over the years, designers such as Penny Sparke, Betty Baugh, Smart Design, TEAMS Design, and others have contributed to the design of the line.

Corelle Brands

In 1998 Corning Incorporated divested itself of its consumer products division, which was renamed World Kitchen in 2000, and Corelle Brands in 2018.[5][6] Corelle took over production of Pyrex and other Corningware products in the United States.[7]

In 2019 Corelle Brands merged with Instant Brands, the makers of the Instant Pot.[8] The combined company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2023 after high interest rates and waning access to credit hit its cash position and made its debts unsustainable.[9] The company emerged from bankruptcy after the appliance portion (Instant Brands) and the housewares portion (Corelle Brands) of the business were separately purchased by private equity firm Centre Lane Partners, one of the largest stockholders in Pyrex rival Anchor Hocking.[10][11]

After the purchase was finalized in early 2024, Centre Lane transferred ownership of Corelle to Anchor Hocking. This arrangement came into public awareness later in the year after Anchor Hocking announced that they planned to close Pyrex's 132-year old factory in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, and relocate production to Anchor Hocking's factory in Lancaster, Ohio.[12] Senators Bob Casey Jr. and John Fetterman each criticized the move and demanded an explanation for how the merger of two major competitors was able to proceed without Federal Trade Commission oversight.[13]

A lawsuit by the State of Pennsylvania against Centre Lane Partners that attempted to halt the factory closure was dismissed by a federal judge.[12] After months of uncertainty and multiple temporary closures, Anchor Hocking permanently closed the Charleroi factory in April 2025.[14]

European history

After Corning Incorporated divested itself of its consumer products division in 1998, Newell Cookware Europe retained its license to produce Pyrex in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

France-based cookware maker Arc International acquired Newell's European business in early 2006[15] to own rights to the brand in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.[16][17] In 2007, Arc closed the Pyrex soda–lime factory in Sunderland, UK moving all European production to France. The Sunderland factory had first started making Pyrex in 1922.[18]

Arc International sold off its Arc International Cookware division including Pyrex business in 2014, and the division was subsequently renamed the International Cookware group.[19] London-based private equity firm Kartesia[20] purchased International Cookware in 2020.[21]

In 2021, International Cookware acquired Pyrex rival Duralex for €3.5 million (US$4.2m).[22][23][24]

Trademark

Pyrex remains a trademark of Corning Incorporated, but is licensed by dinnerware manufacturers.[25]

File:Pyrex - Logo.svg
Pyrex logo as used by Corelle

Corning Incorporated continues to manufacture PYREX (all uppercase) laboratory glassware for international markets.[25] The pyrex (all lowercase, introduced in 1975[26]) trademark is now used for kitchenware sold in the United States, South America, and Asia.[27]

File:Pyrex-logo-with-shadow-3.jpg
Pyrex logo as used by International Cookware

In Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, a variation of the PYREX (all uppercase) trademark is licensed by International Cookware[28] for bakeware that has been made of numerous materials including borosilicate and soda–lime glass, stoneware, metal, plus vitroceramic cookware.[29]

It is a common misconception that the logo style alone indicates the type of glass used to manufacture the bakeware.[30] In reality, Corning's introduction of soda-lime-glass-based Pyrex in the 1940s predates the introduction of the all lowercase logo by nearly 30 years.[31][26][32]

Composition

Two clear measuring jugs featuring red text. The jug on the right is wider than the jug on the left.
A clear tempered pyrex soda–lime glass measuring jug produced by Instant Brands (left, differentiated by its different logo and bluish tint), and a clear borosilicate glass PYREX measuring jug produced by Corning (right)

Older clear-glass Pyrex manufactured by Corning, Arc International's Pyrex products, and Pyrex laboratory glassware are made of borosilicate glass. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, borosilicate Pyrex is composed of (as percentage of weight): 4.0% boron, 54.0% oxygen, 2.8% sodium, 1.1% aluminium, 37.7% silicon, and 0.3% potassium.[33][34]

According to glass supplier Pulles and Hannique, borosilicate Pyrex is made of Corning 7740 glass and is equivalent in formulation to Schott Glass 8330 glass sold under the "Duran" brand name.[35] The composition of both Corning 7740 and Schott 8330 is given as 80.6% Template:Chem2, 12.6% Template:Chem2, 4.2% Template:Chem2, 2.2% Template:Chem2, 0.1% Template:Chem2, 0.1% Template:Chem2, 0.05% Template:Chem2, and 0.04% Template:Chem2.

In the late 1930s and 1940s, Corning also introduced new product lines under the Pyrex brand using different types of glass. Opaque tempered soda–lime glass was used to create decorated opal ware bowls and bakeware, and aluminosilicate glass was used for Pyrex Flameware stovetop cookware. The latter product had a bluish tint caused by the addition of alumino-sulfate.[36][37]

Beginning in the 1980s, production of clear Pyrex glass products manufactured in the USA by Corning was also shifted to tempered soda–lime glass, like their popular opal bakeware.[31] This change was justified by stating that soda–lime glass has higher mechanical strength than borosilicate—making it more resistant to physical damage when dropped, which is believed to be the most common cause of breakage in glass bakeware. The glass is also cheaper to produce and more environmentally friendly. Its thermal shock resistance is lower than borosilicate's, leading to potential breakage from heat stress if used contrary to recommendations. Since the closure of the soda–lime plant in England in 2007, European Pyrex has been made solely from borosilicate.[7][38][39]

The differences between Pyrex-branded glass products has also led to controversy regarding safety issues—in 2008, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported it had received 66 complaints by users reporting that their Pyrex glassware had shattered over the prior ten years yet concluded that Pyrex glass bakeware does not present a safety concern. The consumer affairs magazine Consumer Reports investigated the issue and released test results, in January 2011, confirming that borosilicate glass bakeware was less susceptible to thermal shock breakage than tempered soda lime bakeware.[40] They admitted their testing conditions were "contrary to instructions" provided by the manufacturer.[37][41] STATS analyzed the data available and found that the most common way that users were injured by glassware was via mechanical breakage, being hit or dropped, and that "the change to soda lime represents a greater net safety benefit."[38]

Use in telescopes

A black and white photograph of a large, flat mirror with a geometric pattern, supported on a metal frame with several people surrounding it.
Pyrex glass used on the mirror of the Hale Telescope

Because of its low expansion characteristics, borosilicate glass is often the material of choice for reflective optics in astronomy applications.

In 1932, George Ellery Hale approached Corning with the challenge of fabricating the Script error: No such module "convert". telescope mirror for the California Institute of Technology's Palomar Observatory project.[42] A previous effort to fabricate the optic from fused quartz had failed, with the cast blank having voids. The mirror was cast by Corning during 1934–1936 out of borosilicate glass.[43] After a year of cooling, during which it was almost lost to a flood, the blank was completed in 1935. The first blank now resides in the Corning Museum of Glass.[44]

Gallery

See also

Citations

<templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" />

  1. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  2. ↑ a b Corning Pyrex Bakeware, Carroll M. Gantz, Design Chronicles: Significant Mass-produced Designs of the 20th Century, Schiffer Publications, Ltd. 2005
  3. ↑ Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  4. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  5. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  6. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  7. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  9. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  10. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  14. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  15. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  16. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  17. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  18. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  19. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  20. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  21. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  22. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  23. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  24. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  25. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  26. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  27. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  28. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  29. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  30. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  31. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  32. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  33. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  34. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  35. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  36. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  37. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  38. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  39. ↑ Consumer Reports Breaks A Lot Of Glass Investigating Shattering Pyrex Bakeware Template:Webarchive, The Consumerist
  40. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  41. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  42. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  43. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  44. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

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General and cited references

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    • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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External links

Template:Sister project

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  • Pyrex Love, a vintage Pyrex reference site

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