Скачать или смотреть "From Accident to Innovation: The Birth of Safety Glass by Édouard Benedictus"

In 1903, French chemist Édouard Benedictus made a ground-breaking discovery that would transform safety in various applications: the invention of safety glass. This serendipitous innovation occurred when Benedictus accidentally knocked over a glass flask containing a cellulose nitrate solution. Rather than shattering into dangerous shards, the flask held together, thanks to a thin layer of dried plastic film that kept the broken pieces in place. This unexpected event sparked Benedictus's imagination and motivated him to develop a solution that could prevent glass from causing injuries in accidents.

By 1909, Benedictus secured a patent for his invention, which he aptly named "Triplex." The innovative design comprises two sheets of glass sandwiched around a layer of plastic film, creating a robust construction that significantly increases both durability and safety.

Triplex safety glass quickly found its first major application in car windscreens during World War I, where it played a crucial role in enhancing vehicle safety by preventing glass shards from flying during collisions. Over the years, the utility of safety glass has expanded to various sectors, including construction and eyewear, marking it as one of the most important contributions to public safety in the 20th century. Benedictus's accidental discovery not only saved lives but also laid the groundwork for innovations that continue to protect individuals to this day.