Question

Application of silicone on the glass bottle surface during their manufacturing helps in
(A). Maintaining glossy appearance
(B). Prevents breakage
(C). Decreases the noise on contact
(D). Prevents spoilage
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

The primary function of a silicone coating on glass is to make it slippery. This slipperiness prevents scratches (which maintains gloss and strength) and reduces noise on the production line. It's a physical protection, not a chemical or microbial one.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
During glass bottle manufacturing, surface coatings are applied to protect the glass and facilitate handling on high-speed filling lines. A cold-end coating, often silicone-based, is applied after the annealing process.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The silicone coating provides lubricity to the bottle surface. This has several benefits:
- (A) Maintaining glossy appearance: The coating protects the glass from abrasion and scuffing as bottles come into contact with each other and with machinery. This prevents scratches that would dull the surface, thus maintaining its gloss.
- (B) Prevents breakage: Scratches and abrasions on the glass surface create microscopic flaws that act as stress concentration points, significantly weakening the bottle and making it more susceptible to breakage under pressure or impact. The protective coating reduces scratching and thus helps prevent breakage.
- (C) Decreases the noise on contact: The lubricity provided by the coating allows bottles to slide smoothly against each other on conveyor belts, reducing friction and the associated clatter and noise.
- (D) Prevents spoilage: The surface coating has no antimicrobial or barrier properties. Preventing spoilage is the role of the food preservation process (e.g., pasteurization) and the integrity of the bottle's seal or closure. This statement is incorrect.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The application of silicone helps in maintaining a glossy appearance, preventing breakage, and decreasing noise. Therefore, option (B), which includes (A), (B), and (C), is the correct answer.