Which property makes borosilicate glass preferable for laboratory use?

Borosilicate glass is specifically designed to withstand sudden temperature changes without breaking, which is referred to as thermal shock resistance. This property is particularly important in laboratory settings where glassware may be subjected to rapid heating and cooling processes. For example, when a hot liquid is added to a glass container taken directly from a cold environment, ordinary glass may crack or shatter due to the stress caused by the temperature difference. In contrast, borosilicate glass can handle these stressors effectively, making it a safe and reliable choice for lab applications.

While high optical clarity, lower thermal conductivity, and lower cost might be advantageous in certain contexts, they do not compare to the critical nature of thermal shock resistance in ensuring the durability and safety of laboratory equipment. Therefore, the ability to resist thermal stress is the defining characteristic that makes borosilicate glass particularly beneficial for scientific and industrial use.