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When it comes to baking and cooking, the type of cookware you use can make a big difference. One material that has gained popularity in recent years is borosilicate glass. But is borosilicate glass oven safe? Let’s find out.
What is Borosilicate Glass?
Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that is made with boron trioxide and silica. It is known for its high resistance to thermal shock, which means it can withstand rapid temperature changes without breaking. This makes it a popular choice for laboratory glassware, as well as for cookware.
Borosilicate glass is different from regular soda-lime glass, which is more likely to break from thermal shock or from being dropped. Soda-lime glass is not suitable for oven use, as it may explode or shatter when heated. Tempered glass is another type of glass that is more durable than soda-lime glass, but it is still not as heat-resistant as borosilicate glass.
Oven Safety
Borosilicate glass is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures. It is designed to be used in both conventional ovens and microwave ovens. This makes it versatile for baking, roasting, and reheating food.
Borosilicate Glass Thermal Expansion
Borosilicate glass is oven-safe because it has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion (3.3×10−6K−1), which means it does not expand or contract much when heated or cooled. This makes it more resistant to thermal shock, which is the cracking or shattering of glass caused by sudden or extreme changes in temperature. Borosilicate glass can withstand temperature differentials without fracturing of about 165 °C ($300,^\circ\mathrm{F
Benefits of Using Borosilicate Glass in the Oven
There are several benefits to using borosilicate glass cookware in the oven:
- Even Heat Distribution: Borosilicate glass ensures even heat distribution, which helps to prevent hot spots and ensures that your food cooks evenly.
- Non-reactive: Unlike some other materials, borosilicate glass is non-reactive, which means it won’t interact with your food and alter its taste or flavor.
- Easy to Clean: Borosilicate glass is easy to clean and is dishwasher safe. You can also use it to store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer.
Tips for Using Borosilicate Glass in the Oven
While borosilicate glass is oven-safe, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: While borosilicate glass is designed to withstand rapid temperature changes, it’s still a good idea to avoid subjecting it to extreme temperature changes. For example, please don’t take a borosilicate glass dish directly from the oven and place it on a cold surface.
- Avoid Direct Heat: While borosilicate glass can withstand high temperatures, it’s best to avoid placing it directly on a flame or heating element. Always use it with a trivet or oven mitt.
- Avoid Impact: Borosilicate glass is durable, but it can still break if dropped or subjected to a hard impact. Handle it with care to prevent accidents.
Is It Safe to Use Borosilicate Glass on a Gas Stove?
Not all borosilicate glass products are safe to use on a gas stove. Some may have metal or plastic attachments that are not suitable for high heat. Therefore, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any glass product on a gas stove. You can also look for symbols or markings on the bottom of the product that indicate whether it is gas stove safe or not. The symbol you’re looking for will most likely resemble a steaming bowl of soup. It can also be a miniature oven with vertical squiggly lines (horizontal ones are for the microwave).
Conclusion
In conclusion, borosilicate glass is oven-safe and can be used for baking, roasting, and reheating food. Its high resistance to thermal shock, even heat distribution, and non-reactive nature make it an excellent choice for cookware. Just remember to follow the tips for using borosilicate glass in the oven to ensure its longevity.
