The broken pieces of glass added to the fused raw materials in the manufacture of glass is called (a) batch (b) glass gall (c) cullet (d) none of these

The production of glass is a fascinating process, blending both ancient techniques and modern technology. It starts with the gathering of raw materials like sand (silica), soda ash, and limestone. These components are mixed to form what is known as a 'batch'.

During the melting phase, the batch is heated in a furnace to a high temperature, usually above 1700°C, where it melts to form a thick, viscous liquid. The molten glass is then shaped into the desired form through processes like blowing, pressing, or drawing.

Adding cullet, or broken pieces of glass, to the batch is a critical step in this process, as it greatly reduces the temperature needed to melt the materials. This not only conserves energy but also speeds up the melting process. Following this, the glass undergoes annealing to remove any stresses, after which it is cooled slowly to ensure durability and clear, consistent quality.

Recycling plays a pivotal role in the manufacture of glass, largely due to the use of cullet. Cullet consists of discarded or broken glass that is collected, sorted, and then reintroduced into the glass production process.

The advantages of using cullet are numerous. Not only does it lower the demand for raw materials, thereby conserving natural resources, but it also decreases the energy needed to achieve the melting point of the batch mixture. This cyclical use of glass ensures that the material is continually repurposed, reducing waste and also the amount of glass ending up in landfills.

Moreover, recycling glass is an efficient process, as glass can be recycled indefinitely without loss of quality. Manufacturers often aim for a mix of both raw materials and cullet to produce new glass products, highlighting the industry's commitment to sustainable practices.

Energy conservation is a core objective in the industrial sector, with significant focus on reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental impact. In industries like glass manufacturing, conservation methods are implemented through technological innovations and improved processes.

By integrating cullet into the batch, the energy required to melt the raw materials is significantly reduced. Besides, advancements in furnace design, such as better insulation and more efficient heating systems, contribute to lower energy usage. The ripple effect of these conservation efforts leads to cost savings for the industry and a lesser environmental footprint.

Furthermore, adopting renewable energy sources and incorporating energy management systems, industries across the board are improving their sustainability credentials. This conscious move towards energy conservation reflects a deeper understanding of the pivotal role industry plays in environmental stewardship.