Glass bottles are a durable and cost effective packaging solution that is used in various industries. Some of the popular applications of glass bottles are liquor, cosmetics, food condiments and candles. They are also used to make colorful sand art. However, glass is not 100% recyclable.
The bottle industry is a growing segment. It provides a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers. Major players are adopting sustainable practices to increase the sustainability of their products. This includes the use of recycled materials, which reduces the amount of raw materials required to produce new glass. Recycled glass can save 50% of the energy needed for manufacturing, and will also reduce air and water pollution.
Most of the glass bottles are manufactured from soda-lime or borosilicate glass. These materials are treated to reduce the rate of chemical interactions and increase their durability. Modern glass also contains magnesium oxide and limestone to enhance its chemical properties.
For the purposes of the global glass bottles market, the leading players are focusing on product development and geographical expansion. Their efforts will drive growth in North America through 2031. In terms of revenue generation, beverages and pharmaceuticals are the main growth drivers of the industry.
The market will also be benefited by the increasing demand for perfumes & fragrances. Moreover, the ban on single-use plastics will drive the demand for glass containers. Additionally, the health care industry is expected to provide a boost to the adoption of glass bottles. As more countries join the single-use plastics ban, the market for containers made of glass is expected to expand significantly.
Among the key elements that are involved in glassmaking are sand, soda ash, limestone and silica carbonate. A combination of these materials is added to the molten glass to lower its melting temperature and create a softer, less dense container.
A special kiln called a lehr is used to reheat and cool the newly formed containers. This process allows for even cooling and avoids stress within the glass. There are two different formations – Blow and Blow, which is a common type of formation, and the Press and Blow process. Both are used for narrow and wide-mouth containers.
Although not 100% recyclable, glass is a safe and durable material. In fact, 80% of recovered glass containers are converted into new glass bottles. Since glass is nonporous, the flavor of food remains intact. Also, the bottles are highly reusable, which reduces the amount of waste created.
Some other important features of glass bottles are its non-porous nature, its impermeable properties, its strength and its recyclability. Compared to other materials, glass is considered one of the most environmentally friendly products. Furthermore, the recyclability of glass reduces the space required to store materials in landfills. Consequently, the container glass industry is working to achieve a major glass revolution by 2050.
Among the major players, Owen Illinois, Inc. and Loblaw Inc. are the top two manufacturers in the United States. Both companies are engaged in strategic mergers and acquisitions in order to strengthen their positions in the glass bottles market.