Glass composition, glass filler, and method for producing the same

Abstract

Provided is a glass composition containing tin oxide, in which the content of tin oxide which is expressed in % by mass is 0.1 ≦ T-SnO2 ≦ 2.5 (wherein T-SnO2 represents a total tin oxide content calculated in terms of SnO2 content). A glass filler comprising the glass composition may be a flaky glass, a chopped strand, a milled fiber, a glass powder, glass beads, a flat fiber, a thin-chip-like glass or the like. The glass composition is suitable for the stable production of a glass filler or the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a glass composition, a glass filler composed of the composition, and a method for producing the same. The present invention further relates to a resin composition, a paint, an ink composition, and a cosmetic containing the glass filler.

Background Art

[0002] When a glass filler is dispersed in a resin matrix, the strength and dimensional accuracy of the resin molded body can be improved. As fillers for this application, glass fillers having forms such as scaly, fibrous, powdery, and bead-like are known. Glass fillers can be incorporated into paints applied to the surfaces of metals or concretes as lining materials. As fillers for this application, glass fillers having forms such as scaly are known. In addition to uses as these reinforcing fillers, glass fillers can be incorporated into various articles such as resin compositions, paints, ink compositions, and cosmetics, for example, as pigments.

[0003] When the surface is coated with a metal, the glass filler exhibits a metallic color. When the surface is coated with a metal oxide, the glass filler exhibits an interference color due to interference of reflected light. A glass filler having a film containing such a metal or metal oxide as a main component on the surface (coated glass filler) can be used, for example, as a glitter pigment, and its use in applications where color tone and gloss are important, such as paints or cosmetics, is expanding. As fillers incorporated into paints and cosmetics as glitter pigments, glass fillers having forms such as scaly are known.

[0004] In addition, resin compositions are widely used as electrical insulating members and mechanical members for various components included in electronic devices. Examples of electrical insulating members include connector housings used for SMT (surface mount technology), FPC (flexible printed circuits), between boards, CPU (central processing unit) sockets, memory cards, card edges, optical connectors, etc., LCD (liquid crystal display) backlights, coils, flats, transformers, reactance bobbins used for magnetic heads, etc., relay cases, relay base switches, reflow dip switches, tact switches, etc., sensor cases, capacitor casings, volume casings, trimmer casings. Examples of mechanical components include lens holders and pickup bases for optical pickups, insulators and terminals for micromotors, and drums for laser printers. Resin compositions are also used as films such as base films for FPCs and base films for copper-clad laminates. In addition, there is a substrate composed of a resin composition among a type of printed circuit board included in electronic devices. There is also a substrate composed of a resin composition in a printed wiring board before electronic components are mounted. Hereinafter, in this specification, both the printed circuit board and the printed wiring board are collectively referred to as a "printed board".

[0005] The above resin composition contains a thermoplastic resin and an inorganic filler, and may further contain a curing agent, a modifier, etc. as required. As the inorganic filler, glass filler may be used. A typical glass filler is flaky glass. Glass fibers may be further included in the printed board. In recent years, in order to meet the requirements for miniaturization of electronic devices and the requirements for thinning for high functionality, a lower dielectric constant is required for the resin composition, and accordingly, a lower dielectric constant is also required for its constituent materials.

[0006] Patent Document 1 discloses scaly glass having a C glass composition that emphasizes chemical durability, an E glass composition developed for electrical products, and a glass composition that is common as sheet glass. Patent Document 2 discloses scaly glass in which the heat resistance, chemical durability, and ease of molding are improved by controlling the content of SiO2 and Al2O3 and the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O). Patent Document 3 discloses glass fibers composed of a glass composition having a low dielectric constant.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] Glass compositions are required to have properties suitable for mass production. Glass long fibers are obtained, for example, by spinning a glass substrate melted in a refractory kiln tank. Even in such a method for manufacturing glass fibers, the glass fibers are likely to be cut by bubbles present in the glass substrate. Scaly glass is obtained, for example, by pulverizing a hollow glass film formed from a glass substrate melted in a refractory kiln tank. In such a method for manufacturing scaly glass, the hollow glass film is likely to crack due to bubbles present in the glass substrate. Also, chopped strands are obtained, for example, by cutting glass fibers spun from a glass substrate melted in a refractory kiln tank. Even in such a method for manufacturing chopped strands, the glass fibers are likely to be cut by bubbles present in the glass substrate.

[0009] Particularly, glass compositions with a low dielectric constant have a relatively high viscosity, and bubbles generated during the melting of glass raw materials tend to remain in the glass substrate.

[0010] The glass compositions described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 do not contain a fining agent for defoaming from the molten glass substrate, or the fining property during glass melting was not considered.

[0011] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a glass composition that can be stably manufactured as a glass filler or glass fiber.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0012] The present inventor has found that by adopting tin oxide as a fining agent and determining the T-SnO2 content, such a glass composition can be obtained.

[0013] The glass composition of the present invention contains tin oxide, and the content of tin oxide, expressed in mass%, is 0.1 ≦ T-SnO2 ≦ 2.5, (wherein T-SnO2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO2) and is a glass composition.

[0014] The glass fiber of the present invention is a glass fiber composed of the glass composition of the present invention, and the glass filler of the present invention is a glass filler composed of the glass composition of the present invention.

[0015] The coated glass filler of the present invention includes the above-described glass filler of the present invention and a coating formed on the surface of the glass filler, and the coating contains a metal or metal oxide as a main component.

[0016] These glass fillers or coated glass fillers can be used, for example, by adding them to various compositions such as resin compositions, paints, ink compositions, and cosmetics. The resin composition, paint, ink composition, and cosmetic of the present invention contain at least one selected from the above-described glass filler of the present invention and the above-described coated glass filler of the present invention.

[0017] The method for producing the glass filler of the present invention is a method for producing a glass filler, including a step of melting the glass composition of the present invention and a step of forming the melted glass composition into a glass filler.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, a glass composition capable of stably producing a glass filler or glass fiber can be obtained. Further, a glass composition that emits light when irradiated with ultraviolet rays can be obtained. The light emission by ultraviolet irradiation is useful in applications such as pigments, sensor materials, lighting materials, and building materials.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. However, the following description is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments. In the following, "substantially not contained" means that the content rate is less than 0.1% by mass, preferably less than 0.05% by mass, more preferably less than 0.01% by mass, still more preferably less than 0.005% by mass, particularly preferably less than 0.003% by mass, and most preferably less than 0.001% by mass. "Substantially composed of" means that components other than the described components, such as impurities inevitably mixed from industrial raw materials, manufacturing equipment, etc., are allowed within the range that can be regarded as "substantially not contained". The content rate, characteristics, and other preferred ranges of each component can be grasped by arbitrarily combining the upper and lower limits individually described below.

[0021] [Glass composition] <Glass composition> (T-SnO2) The glass composition of this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as glass composition A) contains tin oxide. Sn in the glass usually exists in the state of Sn 2+ and / or Sn 4+ . SnO2 is a component that defoams the bubbles existing in the glass substrate. It is also a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, Sn in the glass is a component that emits light when irradiated with ultraviolet rays. In glass composition A, for tin oxide, the content rate range of T-SnO2 (total tin oxide converted to SnO2) is set to 0.1% by mass or more and 2.5% by mass or less. If the content rate of T-SnO2 is less than 0.1% by mass, a sufficient clarification effect of the glass composition by tin oxide cannot be obtained. When the content rate of T-SnO2 exceeds 2.5% by mass, the devitrification temperature of the glass composition becomes high, or the glass is likely to phase-separate.

[0022] The lower limit of the content of T-SnO₂ is preferably 0.2% by mass or more, more preferably 0.22% by mass or more, still more preferably 0.25% by mass or more, further more preferably 0.3% by mass or more, particularly preferably 0.35% by mass or more, and most preferably 0.4% by mass or more. The content of T-SnO₂ may be 0.6% by mass or more, more preferably 0.8% by mass or more, and in some cases, even 1.0% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of T-SnO₂ is preferably 2% by mass or less, more preferably 1.8% by mass or less, still more preferably 1.6% by mass or less, particularly preferably 1.4% by mass or less, and most preferably less than 1.2% by mass.

[0023] (Components other than tin oxide) Glass composition A further contains SiO₂. The content of SiO₂ in glass composition A is, for example, 40% by mass or more and 80% by mass or less, and may be 45% by mass or more and 75% by mass or less.

[0024] Glass composition A may contain B₂O₃. The content of B₂O₃ in glass composition A can be selected according to the use of the glass composition. The content of B₂O₃ is, for example, 0% by mass or more and 45% by mass or less, may be 0% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, or may be 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less. Glass composition A may be a composition that does not substantially contain B₂O₃. Glass composition A may contain Al₂O₃. The content of Al₂O₃ in glass composition A can be selected according to the use of the glass composition. The content of Al₂O₃ may be 0% by mass or more and 35% by mass or less, 0.1% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, 0.5% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, or even 1% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less.

[0025] Glass composition A contains alkaline earth metal oxides and / or alkali metal oxides. The alkaline earth metal oxide (RO) is at least one selected from MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO, and can be at least one selected from MgO, CaO, and SrO, or can be at least one selected from MgO and CaO. The content of the alkaline earth metal oxide in glass composition A can be selected according to the uses of the glass fibers and glass fillers composed of the glass composition of the present invention. The content of RO is, for example, 0% by mass or more and 45% by mass or less, and can be 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less. The alkali metal oxide (R'2O) is at least one selected from Li2O, Na2O, and K2O. The content of the alkali metal oxide in glass composition A can be selected according to the use of the glass composition. The sum of the contents of the alkaline earth metal oxide and the alkali metal oxide (RO + R'2O) is 0.1% by mass or more and 45% by mass or less, and can be 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, or can be 0.1% by mass or more and 35% by mass or less.

[0026] That is, glass composition A has the following composition expressed in mass%: 40 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 80 0 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 45 0 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 35 0.1 ≦ RO + R'2O ≦ 45 and may further contain components.

[0027] Glass composition A may be substantially composed of the above-described components, or may be composed of the above-described components.

[0028] (Specific examples of glass composition A) (Composition A-1) In one more specific example of glass composition A, the composition is expressed in mass% as: 45 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 80, 10 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 40, 0.1 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 20, 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 10, 0 ≦ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 5, further contains the components of The ratio of the content expressed in mass %, MgO / (MgO + CaO), exceeds 0.5, that is, MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 (Composition A-1).

[0029] The glass composition having the glass composition A-1 can exhibit low dielectric constant and refractive index based on the large amount of components (network-forming components) forming the glass skeleton. In order to obtain a low dielectric constant, in Composition A-1, (SiO2 + B2O3) ≥ 78, and further (SiO2 + B2O3) ≥ 80 may hold, expressed in mass %.

[0030] Each component in the glass composition A-1 will be described below. (SiO2) Silicon dioxide (SiO2) is a component forming the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the largest content rate) of Composition A-1. Also, in Composition A-1, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and has an effect of lowering the dielectric constant. When the content rate of SiO2 in Composition A-1 is 45 mass % or more and 80 mass % or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 is preferably 48 mass % or more, more preferably 50 mass % or more, and may be 52 mass % or more, 54 mass % or more, and further 55 mass % or more. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 is preferably 75 mass % or less, more preferably 70 mass % or less, further preferably 65 mass % or less, particularly preferably 60 mass % or less, and most preferably 58 mass % or less.

[0031] (B2O3) Boron trioxide (B2O3) is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, B2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that has the effect of lowering the dielectric constant. On the other hand, B2O3 is likely to volatilize during the melting of the glass composition, and when its content becomes excessive, it becomes difficult to obtain sufficient homogeneity as a glass composition. Also, excessive content of B2O3 reduces the water resistance of the glass. In Composition A-1, when the content of B2O3 is 10% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. Furthermore, within this range, the water resistance of the glass increases. The lower limit of the content of B2O3 is preferably 15% by mass or more, more preferably 20% by mass or more, further preferably 24% by mass or more, particularly preferably 25% by mass or more, and most preferably greater than 26% by mass. The upper limit of the content of B2O3 is preferably 35% by mass or less, more preferably 32% by mass or less, further preferably 30% by mass or less, particularly preferably 29% by mass or less, and may be 28% by mass or less.

[0032] (Al2O3) Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the dielectric constant of the glass. In Composition A-1, when the content of Al2O3 is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass increases. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content of Al2O3 is preferably 1% by mass or more, more preferably 5% by mass or more, further preferably 8% by mass or more, particularly preferably 10% by mass or more, and most preferably 12% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of Al2O3 is preferably 18% by mass or less, more preferably 16% by mass or less, further preferably 15% by mass or less, and may be 14% by mass or less, and further 13% by mass or less.

[0033] (MgO, CaO) Magnesium oxide (MgO) and calcium oxide (CaO) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass. Also, MgO and CaO are components that improve the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, MgO and CaO are components that adjust the dielectric constant of the glass.

[0034] When emphasizing the dielectric constant and water resistance of the glass composition, the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO), which are components that adjust the dielectric constant and water resistance of the glass, is important. In Composition A-1, when the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO) is 0.1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. Furthermore, within this range, the water resistance of the glass increases. The lower limit of the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO) is preferably 1% by mass or more, more preferably 1.5% by mass or more, further preferably 2% by mass or more, particularly preferably 2.5% by mass or more, and most preferably 3% by mass or more. The upper limit of the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO) may be preferably 8% by mass or less, 7% by mass or less, 6% by mass or less, less than 5% by mass, or even 4.5% by mass or less.

[0035] The addition of MgO and the addition of CaO can have similar effects, but from the perspective of further reducing the dielectric constant, the addition of MgO is more advantageous than the addition of CaO. Also, from the perspective of further improving the water resistance, the addition of MgO is more advantageous than the addition of CaO. Therefore, it is preferable to add MgO and CaO so that MgO / (MgO + CaO)>0.5 holds.

[0036] MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass. Also, MgO is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, MgO is a component that adjusts the dielectric constant of the glass. On the other hand, excessive content of MgO increases the dielectric constant of the glass. For this reason, the lower limit of the content of MgO can be 0.1 mass% or more, or can be 0.5 mass% or more, 1 mass% or more, 1.5 mass% or more, 2 mass% or more, 2.5 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 10 mass% or less, or can be 8 mass% or less, 6 mass% or less, less than 5 mass%, 4.5 mass% or less, 4 mass% or less, and further 3 mass% or less.

[0037] CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass. Also, CaO is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, CaO is a component that adjusts the dielectric constant of the glass. On the other hand, excessive content of CaO increases the dielectric constant of the glass. For this reason, the lower limit of the content of CaO can be 0.1 mass% or more, or can be 0.5 mass% or more, 1 mass% or more, 2 mass% or more, 3 mass% or more, 4 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 10 mass% or less, or can be 8 mass% or less, 6 mass% or less, and further can be less than 5 mass%. When particularly emphasizing the adjustment of the dielectric constant of the glass composition, the upper limit of the content of CaO may be less than 4 mass%, less than 2 mass%, and further less than 1 mass%.

[0038] (SrO) Glass composition A-1 may further contain strontium oxide (SrO). SrO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive content of SrO increases the dielectric constant of the glass. For this reason, the upper limit of the content of SrO can be 5 mass% or less, or can be 2 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, and further can be less than 0.1 mass%. SrO may not be substantially contained.

[0039] (BaO) Glass composition A-1 may further contain barium oxide (BaO). BaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive BaO content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. Therefore, the upper limit of the BaO content can be 5% by mass or less, 2% by mass or less, 1% by mass or less, 0.5% by mass or less, and even less than 0.1% by mass. BaO may not be substantially contained. When particularly emphasizing the uniform melting of the glass raw materials and the stable production of the glass composition, the lower limit of the BaO content may be 0.1% by mass or more.

[0040] (ZnO) Glass composition A-1 may further contain zinc oxide (ZnO). ZnO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Also, ZnO is a component that adjusts the dielectric constant of the glass. On the other hand, excessive ZnO content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. Therefore, the upper limit of the ZnO content can be 5% by mass or less, 2% by mass or less, 1% by mass or less, 0.5% by mass or less, and even less than 0.1% by mass. ZnO may not be substantially contained.

[0041] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass.

[0042] Li2O is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive Li2O content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. Also, excessive Li2O content decreases the water resistance of the glass. Therefore, the lower limit of the Li2O content can be 0.1% by mass or more, 0.2% by mass or more, 0.3% by mass or more, 0.4% by mass or more, and even 0.5% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Li2O content can be 4% by mass or less, 3% by mass or less, 2% by mass or less, 1.5% by mass or less, and even 1% by mass or less.

[0043] Na2O is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive Na2O content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. Also, excessive Na2O content decreases the water resistance of the glass. Therefore, the upper limit of the Na2O content can be 4 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1.5 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, and even 0.2 mass% or less.

[0044] K2O is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive K2O content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. Also, excessive K2O content decreases the water resistance of the glass. Therefore, the upper limit of the K2O content can be 4 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, 0.2 mass% or less, and even less than 0.1 mass%. K2O may not be substantially contained.

[0045] The lower limit of the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 0.1 mass% or more, 0.2 mass% or more, 0.3 mass% or more, 0.4 mass% or more, and even 0.5 mass% or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 5 mass% or less, 4 mass% or less, 3 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1.5 mass% or less, and even 1 mass% or less. The alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may not be substantially contained.

[0046] (TiO2) Glass composition A-1 may further contain titanium dioxide (TiO₂). TiO₂ is a component that improves the meltability and chemical durability of the glass and enhances the ultraviolet absorption characteristics of the glass. On the other hand, excessive TiO₂ content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. The lower limit of the TiO₂ content can be 0.1 mass% or more. The upper limit of the TiO₂ content can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, or less than 0.2 mass%. Within these upper limit ranges, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature due to the TiO₂ content can be suppressed. The upper limit of the TiO₂ content may be less than 0.1 mass%. TiO₂ may not be substantially contained.

[0047] (ZrO₂) Glass composition A-1 may further contain zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). ZrO₂ is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive ZrO₂ content increases the dielectric constant of the glass. The upper limit of the ZrO₂ content can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, less than 0.2 mass%, or even less than 0.1 mass%. Within these upper limit ranges, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature due to the ZrO₂ content can be suppressed. ZrO₂ may not be substantially contained.

[0048] (T-Fe₂O₃) Glass composition A-1 may further contain iron oxide. Iron (Fe) contained in the glass composition is usually in the state of Fe 2+ or Fe 3+ exists. Fe 3+ is a component that enhances the ultraviolet absorption characteristics of the glass composition, and Fe 2+is a component that enhances the heat ray absorption characteristics of the glass composition. Fe may be unavoidably mixed in by industrial raw materials even if not intentionally included. If the content of Fe is small, coloring of the glass composition can be prevented. The upper limit of the content rate of Fe can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, or even less than 0.2 mass% when expressed as T-Fe2O3 (T-Fe2O3 is total iron oxide converted to Fe2O3). T-Fe2O3 may be 0.1 mass% or more. Depending on the glass composition, T-Fe2O3 may reinforce the clarification effect by T-SnO2.

[0049] (CeO2) Glass composition A-1 may further contain cerium oxide (CeO2). CeO2 is a clarification component. If the content of CeO2 is small, coloring of the glass composition can be prevented. Therefore, the lower limit of the content rate of CeO2 can be 0.1 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of CeO2 can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, or less than 0.5 mass%. CeO The content rate of 2 can be in the range by any combination of these upper and lower limits. The upper limit of the content rate of CeO2 may be less than 0.1 mass%. CeO2 may not be substantially contained.

[0050] (F2, Cl2) Glass composition A-1 may further contain fluorine and / or chlorine. Fluorine and chlorine may be contained as molecules (F2 and Cl2 respectively), or as anions (F - and Cl -) may be contained as well. In this specification, fluorine and chlorine contained in molecules or anions may be collectively referred to as F2 and Cl2, respectively. Also, their contents are expressed as mass percentages converted to molecules. Fluorine (F2) is likely to volatilize, so there is a possibility of scattering during melting, and there is also a problem that it is difficult to control the content in the glass. The upper limit of the F2 content can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, 0.2 mass% or less, and even less than 0.1 mass%. F2 may not be substantially contained. Chlorine (Cl2) is likely to volatilize, so there is a possibility of scattering during melting, and there is also a problem that it is difficult to control the content in the glass. The upper limit of the Cl2 content can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, 0.2 mass% or less, and even less than 0.1 mass%. Cl2 may not be substantially contained.

[0051] (P2O5) Glass composition A-1 may further contain phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5). Phosphorus pentoxide is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Also, P2O5 is a component that adjusts the dielectric constant of the glass. Generally, when the content of P2O5 exceeds 2%, the furnace walls of the melting furnace and regenerator are eroded when melting the glass, and the life of the furnace may be significantly reduced. The upper limit of the P2O5 content can be 5 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, 0.2 mass% or less, and even less than 0.1 mass%. P2O5 may not be substantially contained.

[0052] (Composition A-2) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition is expressed in mass% as 50≦SiO2≦75, 15≦Al2O3≦30, 5≦(MgO+CaO)≦25, 0≦(Li2O+Na2O+K2O)≦4, and further contains the components of (Composition A-2).

[0053] The glass composition having Glass Composition A-2 can be a glass composition excellent in mechanical strength and elastic modulus.

[0054] Each component in Glass Composition A-2 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the skeleton of the glass and is the main component (the component with the highest content rate) of Composition A-2. Also, in Composition A-2, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves water resistance. Furthermore, in Composition A-2, SiO2 is also a component that improves the mechanical strength of the glass. When the content rate of SiO2 in Composition A-2 is 50% by mass or more and 75% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. Furthermore, within this range, the mechanical strength of the glass becomes high. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 53% by mass or more, or 55% by mass or more, 57% by mass or more, 58% by mass or more, and further 59% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 70% by mass or less, or 67% by mass or less, 65% by mass or less, 63% by mass or less, less than 62% by mass, and further 61% by mass or less.

[0055] (B2O3) B2O3 is a component that forms the skeleton of the glass. Also, B2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive content of B2O3 reduces the water resistance of the glass. When the content rate of B2O3 in Composition A-2 is 2% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of B2O3 can be 0.1% by mass or more. The upper limit of B2O3 can be 5% by mass or less, or 2% by mass or less, 1.5% by mass or less, 1% by mass or less, 0.5% by mass or less, and further 0.1% by mass or less.

[0056] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. Furthermore, in Composition A-2, Al2O3 is also a component that improves the elastic modulus of the glass. When the content of Al2O3 in Composition A-2 is 15% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass is increased. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials is increased. Furthermore, the elastic modulus of the glass is increased. The lower limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 16% by mass or more, or 17% by mass above , and furthermore can be 18% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 25% by mass or less, or 23% by mass or less, 21% by mass or less, and furthermore can be less than 20% by mass.

[0057] (MgO, CaO) MgO and CaO are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-2. Also, in Composition A-2, MgO and CaO are components that improve the elastic modulus of the glass.

[0058] In Composition A-2, when the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO) is 5% by mass or more and 25% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, the elastic modulus of the glass is increased. The lower limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 8% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more, 11% by mass or more, and can be greater than 12% by mass. The upper limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 22% by mass or less, or 21% by mass or less, 20% by mass or less, 19% by mass or less, 18% by mass or less.

[0059] In Composition A-2, the lower limit of the MgO content can be 0.1% by mass or more, and can also be 2% by mass or more, 4% by mass or more, 6% by mass or more, 8% by mass or more, 10% by mass or more, and further can be greater than 12% by mass. The upper limit of the MgO content can be 22% by mass or less, and can also be 20% by mass or less, 18% by mass or less, 17% by mass or less, and further can be 16% by mass or less.

[0060] In Composition A-2, the lower limit of the CaO content can be 0.1% by mass or more. The upper limit of the CaO content can be 20% by mass or less, and can also be 15% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, 10% by mass or less, 8% by mass or less.

[0061] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-2 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limits of the content rates of SrO, BaO, and ZnO can each be 10% by mass or less.

[0062] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components for adjusting the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-2. Composition A-2 can contain Li2O, Na2O, and K2O at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, in Composition A-2, the upper limit of Li2O + Na2O + K2O is limited to 4% by mass or less.

[0063] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-2 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0064] (Composition A-3) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, when the composition is expressed in mass%, 60 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 75, 2 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 8, 2 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 8, 5 < B2O3 + Al2O3 ≤ 15, 3 ≤ CaO ≤ 20, 6 ≤ Na2O ≤ 20, 9 ≤ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≤ 20, further containing the components of (Composition A-3).

[0065] Glass composition A-3 corresponds to the C glass composition. Similar to the C glass composition, glass composition A-3 exhibits high chemical durability based on the amount of components (network-forming components) forming the glass skeleton and has excellent mechanical properties.

[0066] Each component in glass composition A-3 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the largest content) of Composition A-3. Also, in Composition A-3, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves acid resistance. When the content of SiO2 in Composition A-3 is 60% by mass or more and 75% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass is increased. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content of SiO2 can be 63% by mass or more, may be greater than 64% by mass, or may even be greater than 65% by mass. The upper limit of the content of SiO2 can be 72% by mass or less, or can be 70% by mass or less.

[0067] (B2O3) B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, B2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive B2O3 content reduces the acid resistance of the glass. When the B2O3 content in Composition A-3 is 2% by mass or more and 8% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass increases. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the B2O3 content can be 3% by mass or more, or 4% by mass or more. The upper limit of the B2O3 content can be 7% by mass or less, or 6% by mass or less, and further 5% by mass or less.

[0068] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive Al2O3 content reduces the acid resistance of the glass. When the Al2O3 content in Composition A-3 is 2% by mass or more and 8% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass increases. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the Al2O3 content can be 3% by mass or more, or 3.5% by mass or more, and further 4% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Al2O3 content can be 7% by mass or less, or 6% by mass or less, and further 5% by mass or less.

[0069] (B2O3 + Al2O3) In Composition A-3, when emphasizing the ease of forming the glass composition and acid resistance, the sum of the contents of B2O3 and Al2O3 (B2O3 + Al2O3) is important. In Composition A-3, when (B2O3 + Al2O3) is greater than 5% by mass and 15% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass increases. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of (B2O3 + Al2O3) can be 6% by mass or more, 7% by mass or more, or even 8% by mass or more. The upper limit of (B2O3 + Al2O3) can be 14% by mass or less, 13% by mass or less, less than 12% by mass, 11% by mass or less, or even 10% by mass or less.

[0070] (MgO) When included in Composition A-3, MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. In Composition A-3, the lower limit of the content of MgO can be 0.1% by mass or more, 1% by mass or more, or even 2% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 10% by mass or less, 8% by mass or less, 6% by mass or less, 5% by mass or less, or even 4% by mass or less.

[0071] (CaO) CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. In Composition A-3, when the content of CaO is 3% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of CaO can be 4% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 15% by mass or less, 11% by mass or less, or even 9% by mass or less.

[0072] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-3 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the contents described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limit of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0073] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass in Composition A-3.

[0074] In Composition A-3, the lower limit of the Li2O content can be 0.1 mass% or more, and further can be 0.5 mass% or more. The upper limit of the Li2O content can be 5 mass% or less, less than 2 mass%, and further less than 1 mass%.

[0075] In Composition A-3, when the Na2O content is 6 mass% or more and 20 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the rise in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. Furthermore, within this range, it is also possible to improve the chemical durability of the glass. The lower limit of Na2O can be 7 mass% or more, 8 mass% or more, 9 mass% or more, 9.5 mass% or more, and further 10 mass% or more. The upper limit of Na2O can be 17 mass% or less, 15 mass% or less, 13 mass% or less, and further 12 mass% or less.

[0076] In Composition A-3, the lower limit of the K2O content can be 0.1 mass% or more, and can be 0.5 mass% or more. In Composition A-3, the upper limit of the K2O content can be 5 mass% or less, 3 mass% or less, less than 2 mass%, and further less than 1 mass%.

[0077] In Composition A-3, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 9% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the rise in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high glass heat resistance can be ensured without excessively reducing the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 9.5% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more, 10.5% by mass or more, 11% by mass or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 18% by mass or less, or 16% by mass or less, 15% by mass or less, 14% by mass or less, 13% by mass or less, and further 12% by mass or less.

[0078] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-3 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0079] (Composition A-4) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 50 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 60, 2 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 15, 10 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 20, 15 ≦ CaO ≦ 30, 0 ≦ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 2, further contains components of (Composition A-4).

[0080] Glass composition A-4 corresponds to the E-glass composition. Glass fibers and glass fillers having Glass composition A-4 further exhibit high electrical insulation and chemical durability based on the low content of alkali metal oxides and excellent mechanical properties, similar to the E-glass composition.

[0081] Each component in Glass composition A-4 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the highest content rate) of Composition A-4. Also, in Composition A-4, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves water resistance. When the content rate of SiO2 in Composition A-4 is 50 mass% or more and 60 mass% or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 51 mass% or more, 52 mass% or more, 53 mass% or more, and further 54 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 58 mass% or less, 57 mass% or less, and further 56 mass% or less.

[0082] (B2O3) B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, B2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive content of B2O3 reduces the water resistance of the glass. When the content rate of B2O3 in Composition A-4 is 2 mass% or more and 15 mass% or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of B2O3 can be 3 mass% or more, 4 mass% above , and further 5 mass% or more. B 2 O The upper limit of the content rate of 3 can be 13 mass% or less, 10 mass% or less, 8 mass% or less, 7 mass% or less, and further 6 mass% or less.

[0083] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. When the content of Al2O3 in Composition A-4 is 10% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass is increased. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials is increased. The lower limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 11% by mass or more, 12% by mass or more, 13% by mass or more, and even 14% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 18% by mass or less, 17% by mass or less, 16% by mass or less, and even 15% by mass or less.

[0084] (MgO) When contained in Composition A-4, MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. In Composition A-4, the lower limit of the content of MgO can be 0.1% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 10% by mass or less, 8% by mass or less, 6% by mass or less, 5% by mass or less, and even 4% by mass or less.

[0085] (CaO) CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. When the content of CaO in Composition A-4 is 15% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of CaO can be 16% by mass or more, 17% by mass or more, 18% by mass or more, and even 19% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 28% by mass or less, 26% by mass or less, and even 25% by mass or less.

[0086] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-4 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limit of the content of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0087] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) The alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-4.

[0088] In Composition A-4, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is in the range of 0 mass% or more and 2 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the increase in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high glass heat resistance can be ensured without excessively reducing the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be greater than 0 mass%, or may be 0.1 mass% or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be 1.5 mass% or less, may be 1 mass% or less, or may even be 0.8 mass% or less.

[0089] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-4 may further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0090] (Composition A-5) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 57 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 65, 8 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 15, 1 ≦ MgO ≦ 5, 15 ≦ CaO ≦ 30, 0 ≦ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 4, and further contains the components of (Composition A-5).

[0091] Glass fibers and glass fillers having Glass Composition A-5 are further excellent in heat resistance, with deformation suppressed when overheated at high temperatures, and are excellent in chemical durability, particularly acid resistance.

[0092] Regarding each component in glass composition A-5, it will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the highest content rate) of composition A-5. Also, in composition A-5, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves acid resistance. When the content rate of SiO2 in composition A-5 is 57 mass% or more and 65 mass% or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 59 mass% or more, or may be greater than 60 mass%. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 64 mass% or less, or may be 63 mass% or less.

[0093] (B2O3) Composition A-5 may further contain B2O3. B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, when contained in composition A-5, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. The upper limit of the content rate of B2O3 in composition A-5 can be 2 mass% or less, or may be 1.5 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, and further may be less than 0.1 mass%. Composition A-5 may not substantially contain B2O3.

[0094] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive content of Al2O3 reduces the acid resistance of the glass. When the content rate of Al2O3 in composition A-5 is 8 mass% or more and 15 mass% or less, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of Al2O3 can be 9 mass% or more, or may be 10 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of Al2O3 can be 13 mass% or less, or may be less than 12 mass%.

[0095] (SiO2 - Al2O3) In Composition A - 5, regarding the acid resistance of the glass, the balance of the contents of SiO2 and Al2O3 is important. From the perspective of improving the acid resistance of the glass, the lower limit of the value obtained by subtracting the content of Al2O3 from the content of SiO2 (SiO2 - Al2O3) is preferably 47% by mass or more, and more preferably greater than 49% by mass. Also, the upper limit of (SiO2 - Al2O3) is preferably 57% by mass or less, and more preferably 56% by mass or less, 55% by mass or less, 54% by mass or less, 53% by mass or less, 52% by mass or less in that order.

[0096] (MgO, CaO) MgO and CaO are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A - 5. When the content of MgO in Composition A - 5 is 1% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of MgO can be 1.5% by mass or more, or 2% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 4.5% by mass or less, or 4% by mass or less.

[0097] When the content of CaO in Composition A - 5 is 15% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of CaO can be 18% by mass or more, or 19% by mass or more, and further 20% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 27% by mass or less, or 25% by mass or less, and further 24% by mass or less.

[0098] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A - 5 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the contents described for Composition A - 1. However, the upper limit of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0099] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-5.

[0100] In Composition A-5, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is in the range of 0 mass% or more and 4 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the rise in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high glass heat resistance can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be greater than 0 mass%, or may be 0.1 mass% or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be 3 mass% or less, or may be less than 2 mass%. In Composition A-5, when particularly emphasizing the uniform melting of the glass raw materials and the ease of manufacturing the glass composition, the value of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be set to 2 mass% or more and 4 mass% or less. In Composition A-5, when particularly emphasizing the alkali resistance of the glass composition, the value of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) may be less than 0.1 mass%.

[0101] In Composition A-5, among the alkali metal oxides, lithium oxide (Li2O) shows a particularly high contribution to the effects based on the above-mentioned alkali metal oxides. From this perspective, the lower limit of the content of Li2O in Composition A-5 may be 0.1 mass% or more, or may be 0.4 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content of Li2O may be 3 mass% or less, or may be less than 2 mass%, and further may be 1 mass% or less. In Composition A-5, when particularly emphasizing the uniform melting of the glass raw materials and the ease of manufacturing the glass composition, the content of Li2O may be set to 2 mass% or more and 4 mass% or less.

[0102] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-5 may further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0103] (Composition A-6) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass %, 65 < SiO2 ≤ 70, 5 ≤ Al2O3 ≤ 15, 1 ≤ MgO ≤ 10, 10 ≤ CaO ≤ 25, 0 ≤ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≤ 4, further contains components of (Composition A-6).

[0104] Glass fibers and glass fillers having Glass Composition A-6 are further excellent in heat resistance, with deformation suppressed when overheated at high temperatures, and are excellent in chemical durability, particularly acid resistance.

[0105] Each component in Glass Composition A-6 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the largest content rate) of Composition A-6. Also, in Composition A-6, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves acid resistance. When the content rate of SiO2 in Composition A-6 is greater than 65 mass % and less than or equal to 70 mass %, an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass is increased. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 66 mass % or more. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 69 mass % or less, 68 mass % or less, and further 67 mass % or less.

[0106] (B2O3) Composition A-6 may further contain B2O3. B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, when contained in Composition A-6, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. In Composition A-6, the upper limit of the B2O3 content may be 2% by mass or less, 1.5% by mass or less, 1% by mass or less, 0.5% by mass or less, and further less than 0.1% by mass. Composition A-6 may not substantially contain B2O3.

[0107] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive Al2O3 content reduces the acid resistance of the glass. When the Al2O3 content in Composition A-6 is 5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, the increase in the devitrification temperature is suppressed and the acid resistance of the glass is increased. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the Al2O3 content may be 6% by mass or more, 8% by mass or more, and further 10% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Al2O3 content may be 13% by mass or less, and less than 12% by mass.

[0108] (SiO2 - Al2O3) In Composition A-6, regarding the acid resistance of the glass, the balance of the contents of SiO2 and Al2O3 is important. From the viewpoint of improving the acid resistance of the glass, the lower limit of the value obtained by subtracting the Al2O3 content from the SiO2 content (SiO2 - Al2O3) is preferably greater than 50% by mass, more preferably 51% by mass or more, further preferably 52% by mass or more, and most preferably greater than 53% by mass. Also, the upper limit of (SiO2 - Al2O3) is preferably 60% by mass or less, and more preferably 59% by mass or less, 58% by mass or less, 57% by mass or less in that order.

[0109] (MgO, CaO) MgO and CaO are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-6. When the content of MgO in Composition A-6 is 1 mass% or more and 10 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of MgO can be 2 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 8 mass% or less, 5 mass% or less, or even 4 mass% or less.

[0110] When the content of CaO in Composition A-6 is 10 mass% or more and 25 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of CaO can be 12 mass% or more, 14 mass% or more, or even greater than 15 mass%. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 23 mass% or less, 21 mass% or less, or even 20 mass% or less.

[0111] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-6 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limits of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10 mass% or less.

[0112] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-6.

[0113] In Composition A-6, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 0 mass% or more and 4 mass% or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the rise in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 0.1 mass% or more, 1 mass% or more, 1.5 mass% or more, or even 2 mass% or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 3.5 mass% or less, or less than 3 mass%.

[0114] In Composition A-6, among the alkali metal oxides, lithium oxide (Li2O) shows a particularly high contribution to the effects based on the above-mentioned alkali metal oxides. From this perspective, the lower limit of the Li2O content in Composition A-6 can be 0.1 mass% or more, 0.5 mass% or more, or even 1 mass% or more. The upper limit of the Li2O content can be 3 mass% or less, less than 2 mass%, or 1 mass% or less.

[0115] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-6 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0116] (Composition A-7) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 60 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 70, 5 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 15, 1 ≦ MgO ≦ 10, 10 ≦ CaO ≦ 25, 4 < (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) < 9, and further contains components of (Composition A-7).

[0117] Glass fibers and glass fillers having glass composition A-7 further have excellent heat resistance, with deformation suppressed when overheated at high temperatures, and are excellent in chemical durability, particularly acid resistance.

[0118] Each component in glass composition A-7 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the highest content rate) of composition A-7. Also, in composition A-7, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation and is a component that improves acid resistance. When the content rate of SiO2 in composition A-7 is 60 mass% or more and 70 mass% or less, the increase in the devitrification temperature is suppressed and the acid resistance of the glass becomes high. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 63 mass% or more, 64 mass% or more, or even greater than 65 mass%. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 69 mass% or less, 68 mass% or less, or even 67 mass% or less.

[0119] (B2O3) Composition A-7 may further contain B2O3. B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, when contained in composition A-7, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. The upper limit of the content rate of B2O3 in composition A-7 can be 2 mass% or less, 1.5 mass% or less, 1 mass% or less, 0.5 mass% or less, or even less than 0.1 mass%. Composition A-7 may not substantially contain B2O3.

[0120] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive Al2O3 content reduces the acid resistance of the glass. In Composition A-7, when the Al2O3 content is 5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, the increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass increases. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the Al2O3 content can be 6% by mass or more, 8% by mass or more, 9% by mass or more, or even 10% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Al2O3 content can be 13% by mass or less, or less than 12% by mass.

[0121] (SiO2 - Al2O3) In Composition A-7, regarding the acid resistance of the glass, the balance of the contents of SiO2 and Al2O3 is important. From the viewpoint of improving the acid resistance of the glass, the lower limit of the value obtained by subtracting the Al2O3 content from the SiO2 content ((SiO2 - Al2O3)) is preferably greater than 50% by mass, more preferably 51% by mass or more, even more preferably 52% by mass or more, and most preferably greater than 53% by mass. Also, the upper limit of (SiO2 - Al2O3) is preferably 60% by mass or less, more preferably 59% by mass or less, 58% by mass or less, and 57% by mass or less in that order.

[0122] (MgO, CaO) MgO and CaO are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-7. When the content of MgO in Composition A-7 is 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of MgO can be 2% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 8% by mass or less, 5% by mass or less, or even 4% by mass or less. When the content of CaO in Composition A-7 is 10% by mass or more and 25% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. The lower limit of the content of CaO can be 12% by mass or more, or it can be 13% by mass or more, 14% by mass or more, or even greater than 15% by mass. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 23% by mass or less, or it can be 21% by mass or less, 20% by mass or less, 19% by mass or less, or even 18% by mass or less.

[0123] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-7 can further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limits of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0124] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-7.

[0125] In Composition A-7, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is greater than 4% by mass and less than 9% by mass, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the glass can be made suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing the rise in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 4.5% by mass or more, or 5% by mass or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 8.5% by mass or less, or 8% by mass or less.

[0126] In Composition A-7, among the alkali metal oxides, lithium oxide (Li2O) shows a particularly high contribution to the effects based on the above-mentioned alkali metal oxides. From this perspective, the lower limit of the content of Li2O in Composition A-7 can be 0.1% by mass or more, or 0.5% by mass or more, and further 1% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of Li2O can be 3% by mass or less, or less than 2% by mass.

[0127] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-7 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the contents described for Composition A-1.

[0128] (Composition A-8, A-9) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 60 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 75, 5 < Al2O3 ≦ 15, 5 ≦ CaO ≦ 20, 6 ≦ Na2O ≦ 13, 9 ≦ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 13, and further contains components of (Composition A-8).

[0129] In another example of a more specific glass composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 60 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 75, 5 < Al2O3 ≦ 15, 3 ≦ CaO ≦ 15, 9 ≦ Na2O ≦ 20, 13 < (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 20, and further contains the components of (Composition A-9).

[0130] Glass fibers and glass fillers having Glass Compositions A-8 and A-9 are further excellent in heat resistance and chemical durability, particularly acid resistance.

[0131] Each component in Glass Compositions A-8 and A-9 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component of Compositions A-8 and A-9. Also, in Compositions A-8 and A-9, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass, and is a component that improves acid resistance. When the content of SiO2 in Compositions A-8 and A-9 is 60% by mass or more and 75% by mass or less, the increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass becomes higher. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content of SiO2 can be 63% by mass or more, 64% by mass or more, and may even be greater than 65% by mass. The upper limit of the content of SiO2 can be 70% by mass or less, 68% by mass or less, and may even be 67% by mass or less.

[0132] (B2O3) Compositions A-8 and A-9 may further contain B2O3. B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, when contained in Compositions A-8 and A-9, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. The upper limit of the content of B2O3 in Compositions A-8 and A-9 can be 6% by mass or less, less than 2% by mass, less than 1% by mass, and may even be less than 0.1% by mass. Compositions A-8 and A-9 may not substantially contain B2O3.

[0133] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, in Compositions A-8 and A-9, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive Al2O3 content reduces the acid resistance of the glass. In Compositions A-8 and A-9, when the Al2O3 content exceeds 5% by mass and is 15% by mass or less, the adjustment effect of the devitrification temperature and viscosity due to the Al2O3 content can be sufficiently obtained, the increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass is suppressed, and the water resistance and acid resistance of the glass are increased. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity during melting of the raw materials is increased. The lower limit of the Al2O3 content can be 6% by mass or more, 7% by mass or more, or even more than 8% by mass. The upper limit of the Al2O3 content can be 13% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, or even less than 12% by mass.

[0134] (MgO) Compositions A-8 and A-9 may further contain MgO. When contained in Compositions A-8 and A-9, MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass. That is, the inclusion of MgO in Compositions A-8 and A-9 is not essential, but it can be contained as a component for adjusting the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. The lower limit of the MgO content in Compositions A-8 and A-9 can be 0% by mass or more, 0.1% by mass or more, 1% by mass or more, or even 2% by mass or more. The upper limit of the MgO content can be 10% by mass or less, 8% by mass or less, 5% by mass or less, or even 4% by mass or less. When MgO is included, by setting its content within these ranges, the devitrification temperature and viscosity during melting of the glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc.

[0135] (CaO) CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass in Compositions A-8 and A-9. The content of CaO varies depending on the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O). When the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 9% by mass or more and 13% by mass or less, the content of CaO is 5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less (Composition A-8). In Composition A-8, by having the total content of alkali metal oxides and the content of CaO within these ranges, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. In this case, the lower limit of the content of CaO can be 8% by mass or more, or 9% by mass or more, 10% by mass or more, or even greater than 10% by mass. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 18% by mass or less, or 16% by mass or less, or even 15% by mass or less.

[0136] When the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) exceeds 13% by mass and is 20% by mass or less, the content of CaO is 3% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less (Composition A-9). In Composition A-9, by having the total content of alkali metal oxides and the content of CaO within these ranges, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. In this case, the lower limit of the content of CaO can be 4% by mass or more, or 5% by mass or more, or even 6% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of CaO can be 12% by mass or less, or 10% by mass or less.

[0137] When emphasizing the ease of forming the glass composition in Compositions A-8 and A-9, attention can be paid to the value of the total content of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO), which are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. The preferred value of (MgO + CaO) varies depending on the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) in Compositions A-8 and A-9.

[0138] When the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 9% by mass or more and 13% by mass or less, (MgO + CaO) can be 5% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less. In Composition A-8, due to the total content of alkali metal oxides and the total content of MgO and CaO being within these ranges, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within ranges suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, high acid resistance of the glass can be ensured. In this case, the lower limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 11% by mass or more, or 12% by mass or more, 13% by mass or more, or even 14% by mass or more. The upper limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 26% by mass or less, or 23% by mass or less, or even 20% by mass or less.

[0139] When the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) exceeds 13% by mass and is 20% by mass or less, (MgO + CaO) can be 3% by mass or more and 25% by mass or less. In Composition A-9, due to the total content of alkali metal oxides and the total content of MgO and CaO being within these ranges, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting can be set within ranges suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, high acid resistance of the glass can be ensured. In this case, the lower limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 6% by mass or more, or 8% by mass or more, 9% by mass or more, or even 10% by mass or more. The upper limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 20% by mass or less, or 17% by mass or less, or even 15% by mass or less.

[0140] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Compositions A-8 and A-9 can each further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limit of the content rates of SrO, BaO, and ZnO can each be 10% by mass or less.

[0141] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation while maintaining the heat resistance of the glass in Compositions A-8 and A-9. The total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 9% by mass or more and 13% by mass or less in Composition A-8, and exceeds 13% by mass and is 20% by mass or less in Composition A-9. When the total content of alkali metal oxides is within these ranges, in Compositions A-8 and A-9, the devitrification temperature of the glass and the viscosity during melting decrease, improving the formability of the glass and the productivity of glass fibers and glass fillers. Also, at this time, while more uniform melting of the glass raw materials can be carried out, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without excessively lowering the glass transition temperature.

[0142] In Composition A-8, the lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 9.5% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more. In Composition A-8, the upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 12.5% by mass or less, or 12% by mass or less. In Composition A-9, the lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 13.5% by mass or more. In Composition A-9, the upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 18% by mass or less, or 16% by mass or less, 15% by mass or less, or even less than 15% by mass.

[0143] In Compositions A-8 and A-9, among the alkali metal oxides, Li2O shows a particularly high contribution to the effects based on the above-mentioned alkali metal oxides. Also, by containing Li2O, the working temperature of the glass matrix when forming glass fibers and glass fillers can be lowered. When the working temperature decreases, glass fibers and glass fillers are more easily formed, improving their productivity. On the other hand, excessive content of Li2O lowers the glass transition temperature and reduces the heat resistance of the glass. The lower limit of the Li2O content in Compositions A-8 and A-9 can be 0% by mass or more, or 0.1% by mass or more, 0.5% by mass or more, or even 1% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Li2O content can be 5% by mass or less, or 4% by mass or less, 3% by mass or less, 2% by mass or less, or even less than 2% by mass.

[0144] The content rate of Na2O is 6 mass% or more and 13 mass% or less in Composition A-8, and 9 mass% or more and 20 mass% or less in Composition A-9. In any composition, when the content rate of Na2O is within these ranges, the effects based on the above-described alkali metal oxides become more certain. In Composition A-8, the lower limit of the content rate of Na2O can be 7 mass% or more, 8 mass% or more, or even 9 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of Na2O can be 12 mass% or less. In Composition A-9, the lower limit of the content rate of Na2O can be 10 mass% or more, 11 mass% or more, or even 12 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of Na2O can be 17 mass% or less, 15 mass% or less, less than 15 mass%, or even 14 mass% or less.

[0145] In Compositions A-8 and A-9, the lower limit of the content rate of K2O can be 0 mass% or more, 0.1 mass% or more, or even 0.5 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content rate of K2O can be 5 mass% or less, 3 mass% or less, 2 mass% or less, less than 2 mass%, or even 1 mass% or less.

[0146] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Compositions A-8 and A-9 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1, respectively.

[0147] (Composition A-10) In another example of a more specific glass composition A, when the composition is expressed in mass%, 60 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 80, 5 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 20, 5 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 15, 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) < 1, 9 < Na2O < 13, it can further contain components of (Composition A-10).

[0148] Glass fibers and glass fillers having a glass composition A-10 are more suitable for blending into resins (especially acrylic resins) in at least one property selected from refractive index, density, and Young's modulus than glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. made of conventional glass compositions.

[0149] Each component in the glass composition A-10 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the skeleton of the glass and is the main component (the component with the largest content rate) of composition A-10. Also, in composition A-10, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Furthermore, SiO2 is a component that improves water resistance and is also a component that adjusts the refractive index. When the content rate of SiO2 in composition A-10 is 60% by mass or more and 80% by mass or less, an increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass that makes it difficult to manufacture glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. is suppressed, and the water resistance of the glass increases. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. Furthermore, within this range, it is also possible to adjust the refractive index of the glass within a range suitable for blending into acrylic resins. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 62% by mass or more, 64% by mass or more, or even greater than 65% by mass. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 74% by mass or less, 73% by mass or less, 72% by mass or less, less than 71% by mass, or even less than 68% by mass.

[0150] (B2O3) B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Further, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the refractive index. When the content of B2O3 in Composition A-10 is 5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, an increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass, which makes it difficult to manufacture glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., is suppressed, and the refractive index of the glass can be adjusted within a range suitable for blending into an acrylic resin. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content of B2O3 can be 8% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more, 11% by mass or more, 12% by mass or more, 13% by mass or more, and further 14% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of B2O3 can be 18% by mass or less, or 17% by mass or less, 16% by mass or less, and further less than 15% by mass.

[0151] (Al2O3) Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Further, Al2O3 is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass and also a component that adjusts the refractive index. When the content of Al2O3 in Composition A-10 is 5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, an increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass, which makes it difficult to manufacture glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., is suppressed, and the refractive index of the glass can be adjusted within a range suitable for blending into an acrylic resin. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 6% by mass or more, or 6.5% by mass or more, and further 7 mass % or more It may be as large as. The upper limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 13% by mass or less, or less than 12% by mass, less than 10% by mass, less than 9% by mass, and further less than 8% by mass.

[0152] (MgO, CaO) Composition A-10 may further contain MgO. When contained in Composition A-10, MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is also a component that adjusts the refractive index. Therefore, the lower limit of the content of MgO in Composition A-10 can be 0.1% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be less than 1% by mass, less than 0.7% by mass, less than 0.5% by mass, or even less than 0.3% by mass.

[0153] Composition A-10 may further contain CaO. When contained in Composition A-10, CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is also a component that adjusts the refractive index. The addition of CaO can have the same effect as the addition of MgO, but from the perspective of further reducing the refractive index, the addition of MgO is more advantageous than the addition of CaO. The content of CaO is preferably kept lower than the content of MgO. Therefore, the upper limit of the content of CaO in Composition A-10 can be less than 1% by mass, less than 0.5% by mass, less than 0.3% by mass, or even less than 0.1% by mass.

[0154] In Composition A-10, when the value of the sum of the contents of MgO and CaO (MgO + CaO) is 0.1% by mass or more and less than 1% by mass, it is possible to set the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature. Also, within this range, it is possible to adjust the refractive index of the glass within a range suitable for blending with an acrylic resin. The lower limit of (MgO + CaO) can be 0.15% by mass or more. The upper limit of (MgO + CaO) can be less than 0.7% by mass, less than 0.5% by mass, or even less than 0.3% by mass.

[0155] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-10 may further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the contents described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limit of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0156] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-10.

[0157] Composition A-10 may further contain Li2O. The upper limit of the Li2O content in Composition A-10 can be 5% by mass or less, and can also be less than 2% by mass, less than 1% by mass, less than 0.75% by mass, and further less than 0.5% by mass.

[0158] In Composition A-10, when the Na2O content is greater than 9% by mass and less than 13% by mass, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be adjusted to a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature. Also, while suppressing an increase in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high glass heat resistance can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of Na2O can be 9.5% by mass or more, and can also be 10% by mass or more. The upper limit of Na2O can be 12.5% by mass or less, and can also be 12% by mass or less.

[0159] Composition A-10 may further contain K2O. The lower limit of K2O in Composition A-10 can be 0.1% by mass or more, and can also be greater than 0.5% by mass. The upper limit of K2O can be 5% by mass or less, and can also be 3% by mass or less, 2% by mass or less, less than 1% by mass, and further less than 0.8% by mass.

[0160] In Composition A-10, when the total content of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is greater than 9% by mass and less than 13% by mass, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature. Also, while suppressing an increase in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 9.5% by mass or more, can be greater than 10% by mass, 10.5% by mass or more, and can even be greater than 11% by mass. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 18% by mass or less, can be less than 15% by mass, and can even be less than 13% by mass.

[0161] (TiO2)(ZrO2)(T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) Composition A-10 can further contain TiO2, ZrO2, T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0162] (Composition A-11) In another example of a more specific Glass Composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 45 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 65, 21 ≦ B2O3 ≦ 35, 5 ≦ Al2O3 ≦ 15, 4 ≦ Na2O ≦ 9, can further contain the components of (Composition A-11).

[0163] (Composition A-12) In another example of a more specific Glass Composition A, the composition, expressed in mass%, 50 ≦ SiO2 ≦ 75, 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 20, 9 ≦ (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) ≦ 20, 5 ≦ ZrO2 ≦ 20, can further contain the components of (Composition A-12).

[0164] The glass composition A-12 can be a glass filler or glass fiber with high chemical durability.

[0165] Each component in the glass composition A-12 will be described below. (SiO2) SiO2 is a component that forms the glass skeleton and is the main component (the component with the highest content rate) of Composition A-12. Also, in Composition A-12, SiO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves water resistance and acid resistance. When the content rate of SiO2 in Composition A-12 is 50% by mass or more and 75% by mass or less, the increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass, which makes it difficult to manufacture glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., is suppressed, and the water resistance and acid resistance of the glass increase. Also, within this range, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The lower limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 54% by mass or more, or more than 56% by mass, 58% by mass, 60% by mass, 62% by mass, 63% by mass, 64% by mass, more than 65% by mass, and even more than 66% by mass. The upper limit of the content rate of SiO2 can be 74% by mass or less, or 73% by mass or less, 71% by mass or less, and even 70% by mass or less.

[0166] (B2O3) The composition A-12 may further contain B2O3. When contained in Composition A-12, B2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, B2O3 is also a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. On the other hand, excessive content of B2O3 reduces the acid resistance of the glass. The upper limit of the content rate of B2O3 can be 5% by mass or less, or less than 3% by mass, less than 2% by mass, less than 1% by mass, and even 0.5% by mass or less.

[0167] (Al2O3) Composition A-12 may further contain Al2O3. When contained in Composition A-12, Al2O3 is a component that forms the glass skeleton. Also, Al2O3 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation, and is a component that improves the water resistance of the glass. On the other hand, excessive content of Al2O3 reduces the acid resistance of the glass. The upper limit of the content of Al2O3 can be 5% by mass or less, 4% by mass or less, less than 3% by mass, less than 2% by mass, and further can be less than 1.5% by mass.

[0168] (B2O3 + Al2O3) In Composition A-12, when emphasizing the ease of formation and acid resistance of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., the sum of the contents of B2O3 and Al2O3 (B2O3 + Al2O3) can be important. In Composition A-12, (B2O3 + Al2O3) can be 5% by mass or less. In this case, an increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass that makes it difficult to manufacture glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. is suppressed, and the acid resistance of the glass is increased. Also, the melting point of the glass does not become excessively high, and the uniformity when melting the raw materials increases. The upper limit of (B2O3 + Al2O3) can be 4% by mass or less, less than 3% by mass, less than 2% by mass, and further can be less than 1.5% by mass.

[0169] (MgO, CaO) Composition A-12 may further contain MgO. When contained in Composition A-12, MgO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Also, MgO is a component that adjusts the acid resistance and water resistance of the glass composition. The lower limit of the content of MgO can be 0.1% by mass or more, 1% by mass or more, and further can be greater than 2% by mass. The upper limit of the content of MgO can be 15% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, 10% by mass or less, 8% by mass or less, 6% by mass or less, and further can be 5% by mass or less.

[0170] Composition A-12 may further contain CaO. When contained in Composition A-12, CaO is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Also, CaO is a component that adjusts the acid resistance and water resistance of the glass composition. The lower limit of the CaO content may be 0.1% by mass or more, 1% by mass or more, 2% by mass or more, or even greater than 3% by mass. The upper limit of the CaO content may be 15% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, 10% by mass or less, or even 8% by mass or less.

[0171] In Composition A-12, when the value of the sum (MgO + CaO) of the MgO and CaO contents is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc., while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature. Also, within this range, it is possible to improve the chemical durability of the glass. The lower limit of (MgO + CaO) may be 2% by mass or more, 4% by mass or more, 6% by mass or more, 8% by mass or more, or even 9% by mass or more. The upper limit of (MgO + CaO) may be 20% by mass or less, 18% by mass or less, 16% by mass or less, less than 14% by mass, or even 13% by mass or less.

[0172] (SrO)(BaO)(ZnO) Composition A-12 may further contain SrO, BaO, and ZnO at the content rates described for Composition A-1. However, the upper limit of the contents of SrO, BaO, and ZnO may each be 10% by mass or less.

[0173] (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) Alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation in Composition A-12. Also, alkali metal oxides (Li2O, Na2O, K2O) are components that adjust the acid resistance and water resistance of the glass.

[0174] Composition A-12 may further contain Li2O. In composition A-12, the lower limit of the Li2O content may be 0.1% by mass or more, and may be 0.5% by mass or more, 1% by mass or more, 1.5% by mass or more. The upper limit of the Li2O content may be 5% by mass or less, and may be 4% by mass or less, 3.5% by mass or less, or even 3% by mass or less.

[0175] In composition A-12, the Na2O content may be 6% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less. In this case, while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing an increase in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. Furthermore, within this range, it is also possible to improve the chemical durability of the glass. The lower limit of Na2O may be 7% by mass or more, and may be 7.5% by mass or more, or even 8% by mass or more. The upper limit of Na2O may be 18% by mass or less, and may be 16% by mass or less, 15% by mass or less, 14% by mass or less, less than 13% by mass, or even less than 12% by mass.

[0176] Composition A-12 may further contain K2O. In composition A-12, the lower limit of the K2O content may be 0.1% by mass or more, and may be greater than 0.5% by mass. In composition A-12, the upper limit of the K2O content may be 5% by mass or less, and may be less than 4% by mass, 3% by mass or less, or even less than 2% by mass.

[0177] In Composition A-12, when the total content rate of alkali metal oxides (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) is 9% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, while suppressing an excessive increase in the devitrification temperature, the devitrification temperature and viscosity of the molten glass can be set within a range suitable for the production of glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. Also, while suppressing an increase in the melting point of the glass and enabling more uniform melting of the glass raw materials, high heat resistance of the glass can be ensured without an excessive decrease in the glass transition temperature. Furthermore, within this range, it is also possible to improve the chemical durability of the glass. The lower limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 9.5% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more. The upper limit of (Li2O + Na2O + K2O) can be 18% by mass or less, or 16% by mass or less, 15% by mass or less, 14% by mass or less, less than 13% by mass, and even less than 12% by mass.

[0178] (TiO2) Composition A-12 has the content rates described for Composition A-1 and may further contain TiO2. with

[0179] (ZrO2) In the glass composition A-12, ZrO2 is a component that adjusts the devitrification temperature and viscosity during glass formation. Also, ZrO2 is a component that adjusts the acid resistance and water resistance of the glass composition. When the content rate of ZrO2 in Composition A-12 is 5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, an increase in the devitrification temperature of the glass that makes it difficult to produce glass fillers, glass fibers, etc. is suppressed, and the water resistance and acid resistance of the glass increase. The lower limit of the content rate of ZrO2 in Composition A-12 is greater than 5% by mass, and can be 5.5% by mass or more, 6% by mass or more, 6.5% by mass or more, and even 7% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content rate of ZrO2 can be 18% by mass or less, or 15% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, less than 10% by mass, 9.5% by mass or less, 9% by mass or less, 8.5% by mass or less, and even 8% by mass or less.

[0180] (T-Fe2O3)(CeO2)(F2, Cl2)(P2O5) ​Composition A-12 can further contain T-Fe2O3, CeO2, F2, Cl2, and P2O5 at the content rates described for Composition A-1.

[0181] (Other components) Glass composition A can contain, as other components, at least one selected from La2O3, WO3, Nb2O5, Y2O3, MoO3, Ta2O5, MnO2, Cr2O3, CuO, and CoO, each at a content rate of 0 mass% or more and 5 mass% or less. The allowable content rates of these components can be less than 2 mass% for each, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, and further less than 0.1 mass%. The total of the allowable content rates of these components can be 5 mass% or less, less than 2 mass%, less than 1 mass%, less than 0.5 mass%, and further less than 0.1 mass%. However, the above other components may not be substantially contained respectively.

[0182] Glass composition A can contain, as additives, at least one selected from Br2, I2, As2O3, and Sb2O3, each at a content rate of 0 mass% or more and 1 mass% or less. The allowable content rates of these components can be less than 0.5 mass% for each, less than 0.2 mass%, and further less than 0.1 mass%. The total of the allowable content rates of these components can be 1 mass% or less, less than 0.5 mass%, less than 0.2 mass%, and further less than 0.1 mass%. However, the above other components may not be substantially contained respectively.

[0183] Glass composition A can contain H2O, OH, H2, CO2, CO, He, Ne, Ar, and N2, each at a content rate of 0 mass% or more and 0.1 mass% or less. The allowable content rates of these components can be less than 0.05 mass% for each, less than 0.03 mass%, and further less than 0.01 mass%. The total of the allowable content rates of these components can be 0.1 mass% or less, less than 0.05 mass%, less than 0.03 mass%, and further less than 0.01 mass%. However, the above other components may not be substantially contained respectively.

[0184] Glass composition A may contain trace amounts of noble metal elements. For example, noble metal elements such as Pt, Rh, Au, and Os can be contained at a content rate of 0 mass% or more and 0.1 mass% or less respectively. The allowable content rate of these components can be less than 0.1 mass% for each, less than 0.05 mass%, less than 0.03 mass%, and even less than 0.01 mass%. The total of the allowable content rates of these components can be 0.1 mass% or less, less than 0.05 mass%, less than 0.03 mass%, and even less than 0.01 mass%. However, the above other components may not be substantially contained respectively.

[0185] <Properties> The properties that the glass composition of the present invention can have will be described below. (Melting properties) The temperature at which the viscosity of the molten glass becomes 1000 dPa·sec (1000 poise) is called the working temperature of the glass and is the most suitable temperature for glass forming. When manufacturing flaky glass or glass fibers as glass fibers or glass fillers, if the working temperature of the glass is 1100°C or higher, the variation in the thickness of the flaky glass or the glass fiber diameter can be reduced. If the working temperature is 1450°C or lower, the fuel cost for melting the glass can be reduced, the glass manufacturing apparatus is less likely to be corroded by heat, and the apparatus life is extended. The lower limit of the working temperature can be 1100°C or higher, 1150°C or higher, 1200°C or higher, 1250°C or higher, and even 1300°C or higher. The upper limit of the working temperature can be 1450°C or lower, 1420°C or lower, 1400°C or lower, 1380°C or lower, and even less than 1350°C.

[0186] The larger the temperature difference ΔT obtained by subtracting the devitrification temperature from the operating temperature, the less likely devitrification occurs during glass forming, and homogeneous glass can be produced with a high yield. Therefore, ΔT of glass composition A can be 0°C or higher, and can also be 10°C or higher, 20°C or higher, 30°C or higher, 40°C or higher, and even 50°C or higher. On the other hand, if ΔT is 500°C or lower, it becomes easier to adjust the glass composition. ΔT of glass composition A can be 500°C or lower, and can also be 400°C or lower, 300°C or lower, and even 200°C or lower.

[0187] (Water resistance) The alkali elution amount can be adopted as an index of water resistance. The lower the alkali elution amount, the higher the water resistance of the glass. When a glass filler is blended into a resin composition, if the alkali elution amount of the glass composition by the test described below is 0.40 mg or less, the strength reduction of the resin composition due to water is suppressed. In a preferred embodiment, the upper limit of the alkali elution amount of the glass composition may be 0.40 mg or less, 0.35 mg or less, and even 0.33 mg or less. The lower limit of the alkali elution amount is usually about 0.001 mg, and may also be 0.01 mg or more, and even 0.03 mg or more.

[0188] (Dielectric constant) The glass composition of this embodiment can have a low dielectric constant. The dielectric constant at a measurement frequency of 1 GHz is 5.0 or lower, 4.9 or lower, 4.8 or lower, 4.7 or lower, 4.6 or lower, and even 4.5 or lower, and in some cases 4.4 or lower. Strictly speaking, the dielectric constant means the relative dielectric constant, but in this specification, it is simply referred to as the dielectric constant according to convention. The dielectric constant is the value at room temperature (25°C).

[0189] [Glass fiber] The glass composition described above is suitable for use as glass fibers. The glass fibers may be either glass long fibers or glass short fibers. Glass long fibers are produced by flowing a glass melt with controlled viscosity out of a nozzle and winding it up with a winder. These continuous fibers are cut to an appropriate length during use. Glass short fibers are produced by blowing the glass melt with high-pressure air, centrifugal force, etc. Glass short fibers are sometimes called glass wool because they have a cotton-like form.

[0190] [Glass Fiber Products] Both glass long fibers and glass short fibers can be further processed into various glass fiber products for use. As glass fiber products for which glass fibers with a high Young's modulus and high crack resistance load are particularly desired, rubber reinforcing cords can be cited. A rubber reinforcing cord includes a strand formed by bundling a plurality of glass long fibers (referred to as filaments). Each strand is composed of, for example, 100 to 2000, typically 200 to 600 glass filaments. Each strand is often coated with a coating layer for improving the adhesiveness with rubber. Since the treatment liquid and method for forming the coating layer are described in detail in documents such as Patent Document 1, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0191] Another glass fiber product for which the characteristics of glass fibers, namely, a high Young's modulus and high crack resistance load, are desired is a glass fiber nonwoven fabric. A glass fiber nonwoven fabric is a nonwoven fabric composed of glass fibers, and an example thereof is glass paper produced by papermaking with fine glass short fibers. Generally, a high strength is expected for glass fiber nonwoven fabrics. In particular, in applications such as a reinforcing material for an electrolyte membrane of a fuel cell and a separator of an electrochemical device including a secondary battery, a high porosity is often required for glass fiber nonwoven fabrics. For this reason, in these applications in particular, there is a great expectation for improving the strength of glass fibers.

[0192] As described above, preferred examples of glass fiber products include rubber reinforcing cords provided with strands in which long glass fibers are bundled, and glass fiber nonwoven fabrics containing short glass fibers.

[0193] [Glass particulate products] The glass compositions described above are suitable not only for glass fibers but also for use as particulate glass, particularly glass fillers such as glass flakes. Glass flakes are scaly glass also called flake glass, and their size is, for example, an average thickness of 2 to 5 μm and an average particle size of 10 to 4000 μm (particularly 10 to 1000 μm). Glass flakes are formed and mass-produced from molten glass by methods such as the blow method and the rotary method. Particulate glass typified by glass flakes may be mixed with a base material and used as a filler for improving the strength of the base material. A typical base material is plastic. In particular, in recent years, the miniaturization of plastic parts has advanced, and further improvement in the dimensional stability and strength of the parts has been demanded. For this reason, it is also desirable to use a glass composition having a high Young's modulus and a large crack resistance load for particulate glass used as a filler. The shape of the particulate glass is typically scaly, but any shape is acceptable as long as it corresponds to "particulate" (maximum diameter of 5 mm or less).

[0194] [Glass fillers] (Form of glass filler) The form of the glass filler is not particularly limited, and for example, it may correspond to at least one selected from flake glass, chopped strands, milled fibers, glass powder, glass beads, flat fibers, and sheet glass. However, these forms are not strictly distinguished from each other. Also, two or more glass fillers having different forms may be combined and used as a filler. Each form will be described below.

[0195] Flaky glass, also called scaly glass, has a flaky shape. The average thickness of the flaky glass is, for example, 0.1 to 15 μm. As shown in Fig. 1A, the thickness of the flaky glass corresponds to the distance t between both main surfaces of the flaky glass 10. Fig. 1B shows the main surface of the flaky glass 10 having an area S. The average particle size is, for example, 0.2 to 15000 μm. The aspect ratio of the flaky glass is, for example, 2 to 1000. The aspect ratio can be obtained by dividing the average particle size by the average thickness. The average thickness can be obtained by measuring the thickness t of 100 or more flaky glasses using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and calculating the average value. The average particle size of the flaky glass can be determined by the particle size (D50) corresponding to a cumulative deposition percentage of 50% in the particle size distribution measured by the laser diffraction scattering method.

[0196] Flaky glass can be obtained by known blowing methods, cup methods, etc. Fig. 2 shows a manufacturing apparatus using the blowing method. In this apparatus, a glass substrate 11 having a predetermined composition melted in a refractory kiln tank 12 expands into a balloon shape by the gas sent into a blow nozzle 13 to become a hollow glass film 14. By crushing this hollow glass film 14 with a pair of pressing rolls 15, flaky glass 10 is obtained.

[0197] Chopped strands have a shape in which glass fibers are cut short. The fiber diameter of the chopped strands is, for example, 1 to 50 μm, and the aspect ratio thereof is, for example, 2 to 1000. The aspect ratio of the chopped strands can be obtained by dividing the fiber length by the fiber diameter. Chopped strands can be manufactured, for example, using the apparatuses shown in Figs. 3 and 4.

[0198] As shown in FIG. 3, a glass substrate that is melted in a refractory kiln tank and has a predetermined composition is drawn out from a bushing 20 having a large number (for example, 2400) of nozzles at the bottom and drawn out as a large number of glass filaments 21. After cooling water is sprayed onto the glass filaments 21, a binder (sizing agent) 24 is applied by an application roller 23 of a binder applicator 22. A large number of glass filaments 21 to which the binder 24 is applied are bundled by a reinforcing pad 25 into three strands 26 each composed of, for example, about 800 glass filaments 21. Each strand 26 is wound around a cylindrical tube 29 fitted into a collet 28 while being twilled by a traverse finger 27. The cylindrical tube 29 around which the strand 26 is wound is removed from the collet 28 to obtain a cake (strand wound body) 30.

[0199] Next, as shown in FIG. 4, the cake 30 is accommodated in a creel 31, the strand 26 is drawn out from the cake 30, and bundled as a strand bundle 33 by a converging guide 32. Water or a treatment liquid is sprayed onto the strand bundle 33 from a spraying device 34. The strand bundle 33 is cut by a rotating blade 36 of a cutting device 35 to obtain chopped strands 37.

[0200] Milled fiber has a shape in which glass fiber is cut into a powder form. The fiber diameter of the milled fiber is, for example, 1 to 50 μm, and its aspect ratio is, for example, 2 to 500. The aspect ratio of the milled fiber can be obtained by dividing the fiber length by the fiber diameter. The milled fiber can be obtained by a known method.

[0201] Glass powder is powdered glass and is manufactured by pulverizing glass. The average particle diameter of the glass powder is, for example, 1 to 500 μm. The particle diameter of the glass powder is defined as the diameter of a sphere having the same volume as the particles of the glass powder. The glass powder can be obtained by a known method.

[0202] The glass beads have a spherical or substantially spherical shape. The average particle diameter of the glass beads is, for example, 1 to 500 μm. The particle diameter of the glass beads is defined as the diameter of a sphere having the same volume as the particles of the glass beads. The glass beads can be obtained by known methods.

[0203] The flat fiber has a shape obtained by cutting a glass fiber having a flat shape such as an elliptical cross section. As shown in FIG. 5, the major axis D2 is larger than the minor axis D1 of the cross section of the flat fiber, and D2 / D1 is, for example, 1.2 or more. The minor axis D1 is, for example, 0.5 to 25 μm. The major axis D2 is, for example, 0.6 to 300 μm. The length L of the flat fiber is, for example, 10 to 1000 μm. The flat fiber can be obtained by known methods. As shown in FIG. 6, the cross-sectional shape of the flat fiber may have a concave shape in which the surface extending along the major axis D2 recedes at the central portion rather than at the end portion.

[0204] The flaky glass is a thin flaky glass. The flaky glass may be composed of, for example, flaky glass having an average thickness of 0.1 to 2.0 μm, or may contain, for example, flaky glass in the range of 0.01 to 2.0 μm in thickness at a ratio of 90% by mass or more. The flaky glass having such a thin average thickness and a small variation in thickness has a high effect of reinforcing the resin and is also excellent in the effect of reducing the molding shrinkage rate of the resin.

[0205] The flaky glass is also suitable for relaxing the restrictions on the thickness of the resin molded body and the like more than before. The flaky glass is preferably composed of flaky glass having an average thickness of 0.1 to 1.0 μm. The flaky glass preferably contains flaky glass in the range of 0.05 to 1.0 μm in thickness at a ratio of 90% by mass or more. The flaky glass can be obtained by the above-described method.

[0206] (Granulation of Glass Filler) The glass filler may be at least partially granulated. Granulation is a process in which a binder treatment is applied to the glass filler, and individual glass fillers are bound to each other by the binder to form granules. Granular flaky glass has excellent workability due to its low dispersibility and also excellent dispersibility in the resin. When using granular flaky glass, the feedability is improved and more reliable quantitative feeding becomes possible. Hereinafter, the binder used for granulation will be described.

[0207] The binder preferably contains a surfactant and a binding component. The surfactant may be any of anionic, cationic, amphoteric and nonionic types. However, when the binding component contains an epoxy resin or a urethane resin, it is preferable to use a nonionic surfactant. This is because it can suppress the aggregation of the binder and stabilize it. Examples of anionic surfactants include sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate, fatty acid salts, alkyl sulfate esters, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, alkyl naphthalene sulfonates, alkyl sulfosuccinates, alkyl diphenyl ether disulfonates, alkyl phosphates, polyoxyethylene alkyl sulfate esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl allyl sulfate esters, sulfosuccinate esters, etc. Examples of cationic surfactants include higher amine halides, alkyl pyridinium halides or quaternary ammonium salts, etc. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include lauryl aminopropionate, lauryl dimethyl betaine, etc. Examples of nonionic surfactants include polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene higher alcohol ether, polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether, polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters such as polyethylene glycol monostearate, sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, glycol fatty acid esters such as glycol monostearate, fatty acid monoglycerides, etc. These may be used in combination of two or more.

[0208] The binding component of the binder is not particularly limited, and organic or inorganic components can be used. Examples of the organic binding component include methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, starch, carboxymethyl starch, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, silane coupling agent, acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, vinyl acetate, urethane resin, and the like. Examples of the inorganic binding component include water glass, colloidal silica, colloidal alumina, aminosilane, and the like. The binding component preferably contains at least one selected from a silane coupling agent, an epoxy resin, and a urethane resin. The silane coupling agent has two or more kinds of reactive groups in the molecule, one of which reacts with the surface of the flaky glass, and the other reacts with the organic binding component and the thermoplastic resin, so that the compatibility between the flaky glass and the thermoplastic resin is improved. The epoxy resin and the urethane resin have good compatibility with the silane coupling agent and the thermoplastic resin.

[0209] Preferably, the binder uses water or alcohol as a solvent and adjusts its concentration so that each component can be uniformly present on the surface of the glass filler. The concentration of the binder is preferably 1 to 10% by mass in terms of the total solid content concentration. The binder can be produced, for example, by appropriately adding a binding component, a surfactant, etc. to a solvent under normal temperature and atmospheric pressure and stirring until it becomes uniform.

[0210] The ratio of the binder in the granulated glass filler, in other words, the adhesion rate of the binder, is, for example, 0.1 to 2% by mass in terms of the solid content mass ratio. An adhesion rate of 0.1% by mass or more is suitable for sufficiently suppressing the scattering property of the glass filler. An adhesion rate of 2% by mass or less is suitable for suppressing the generation of gas and the discoloration of the resin composition during the extrusion molding of the resin composition.

[0211] The method for granulating the glass filler is not particularly limited. For example, a stirring granulation method, a fluidized bed granulation method, a spray granulation method, a rotary granulation method, etc. can be used. Specifically, a method can be applied in which the glass filler with an appropriate amount of binder attached thereto by spraying or the like is spread on a rotating drum or a vibrating tray, heated to evaporate the solvent, and granulated. By appropriately adjusting the rotation speed of the rotating drum or the vibration frequency of the vibrating tray, and further the evaporation rate of the solvent, granular glass fillers of a desired size can be produced.

[0212] The glass filler may be one whose surface is treated with a surface treatment agent. This treatment may improve the reinforcing effect of the glass filler. Examples of the surface treatment agent include silicon-based coupling agents such as γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane, γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, and titanium-based coupling agents. The usage amount of the surface treatment agent is, for example, 0.05 to 0.20% by mass of the glass filler.

[0213] (Method for manufacturing glass filler) The glass filler is produced by a method including a step of melting the glass composition described above and a step of shaping the molten glass composition into a desired glass filler. The temperature for melting the glass composition is, for example, 1400 °C or higher.

[0214] (Coating on glass filler) The glass filler may have a film formed on its surface. The film preferably contains a metal or a metal compound as a main component, particularly preferably a metal or a metal oxide as a main component. Here, the main component is the component with the largest content based on mass. Examples of the metal include gold, silver, aluminum, platinum, palladium, and nickel. Examples of the metal oxide include titanium oxide, silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, iron oxide, cobalt oxide, zinc oxide, and tin oxide. The film can be a single layer, a mixed layer, or a multilayer. The film may be formed on at least a part of the surface of the glass filler as the base material. The film may be formed on the entire surface of the glass filler. The thickness of the film can be appropriately selected according to the purpose of the coated glass filler. The film can play roles such as coloring the glass filler and adjusting optical properties. Coloring can be achieved by, for example, the reflected color by the metal film, the color development by the plasmon resonance of the metal nanoparticles constituting the metal film, the interference color by the metal oxide film, etc. The film may be formed by a vapor deposition method typified by the sputtering method, but a liquid phase deposition method is suitable for film formation on the glass filler.

[0215] [Resin composition] The resin composition according to the present invention contains a thermoplastic resin together with the glass filler according to the present invention. The thermoplastic resin is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polybutylene, polybutylene terephthalate, and copolymers thereof. When using polybutylene terephthalate, the effect of suppressing warping of the molded product and improving dimensional stability by mixing with the glass filler becomes greater.

[0216] The content of the glass filler such as flaky glass in the resin composition is preferably 5 to 70% by mass. By setting it to 5% by mass or more, the function of the glass filler as a reinforcing material is likely to be sufficiently exhibited. By setting it to 70% by weight or less, it becomes easy to uniformly disperse the glass filler in the resin composition. In order to sufficiently suppress the molding shrinkage rate, it is more preferable to set the content of the glass filler to 30% by mass or more.

[0217] The resin composition may appropriately contain a reinforcing material other than the glass filler. For example, in applications where high strength is required, glass fibers may be contained. In this case, the glass fibers may be added at a content rate similar to that of the glass filler.

[0218] Flaky glass, flat fibers, and flaky glass have a relatively large specific surface area and are suitable for ensuring the bonding force with the thermoplastic resin. From this perspective, the flat fibers shown in FIG. 6 preferably have a concave surface shape that contributes to the expansion of the specific surface area.

[0219] The resin composition according to the present invention has a low dielectric constant and is suitable for improving various properties such as an improvement in strength, heat resistance, dimensional stability, a reduction in the linear thermal expansion coefficient, a reduction in anisotropy, and a reduction in the anisotropy of the shrinkage rate during molding.

[0220] [Paint] The paint according to the present invention contains the glass filler according to the present invention as a constituent component. The paint is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include vehicle paints, ship paints, aircraft paints, building paints, civil engineering structure paints, building material paints, electrical product paints, resin molded product paints, paper processing paints, and film processing paints. A typical vehicle paint is an automobile paint. The paint may be something called a coating agent or the like, and the means of application is also not particularly limited.

[0221] [Cosmetics] The cosmetics according to the present invention contain the glass filler according to the present invention as a constituent component. The cosmetics are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include facial cosmetics, makeup cosmetics, and hair cosmetics. Facial cosmetics include, for example, foundation and face powder. Makeup cosmetics include, for example, eyeshadow, nail enamel, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick, and fancy powder. The form of the cosmetics is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include powdery, cake-like, pencil-like, stick-like, ointment-like, liquid, emulsion-like, and cream-like.

[0222] [Ink Composition] The cosmetic according to the present invention contains the glass filler according to the present invention as a constituent component. Examples of the ink composition include inks for writing instruments, printing inks, and inkjet inks.

[0223] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to Examples and Comparative Examples.

[0224] (Examples 1 to 76 and Comparative Examples 1 to 5) Normal glass raw materials such as silica sand were formulated so as to have the compositions shown in Tables 1 to 13, and batches of glass raw materials were prepared for each of the Examples and Comparative Examples. Using an electric furnace, each batch was heated to 1500 to 1600 ° C and melted, and maintained for about 4 hours until the composition became uniform. Thereafter, a part of the molten glass (glass melt) was poured out onto an iron plate and slowly cooled to room temperature in the electric furnace to obtain a glass composition (plate-like object, glass sample) as a bulk.

[0225] Regarding the obtained glass composition, the relationship between viscosity and temperature was examined by the ordinary platinum ball pulling-up method, and the working temperature was determined from the results. Here, the platinum ball pulling-up method is a method of measuring viscosity by applying the relationship between the load (resistance) when a platinum ball is pulled up at a constant speed in molten glass and the gravity and buoyancy acting on the platinum ball to Stokes' law showing the relationship between viscosity and falling speed when minute particles settle in a fluid.

[0226] A glass composition pulverized to a size of 1.0 to 2.8 mm in particle diameter was placed in a platinum boat and held in an electric furnace provided with a temperature gradient (800 to 1400 °C) for 2 hours, and the devitrification temperature was determined from the maximum temperature of the electric furnace corresponding to the position where crystals appeared. When the glass became turbid and no crystals could be observed, the maximum temperature of the electric furnace corresponding to the position where turbidity appeared was taken as the devitrification temperature. Here, the particle diameter is a value measured by the sieving method. The different temperatures (temperature distribution in the electric furnace) depending on the location in the electric furnace were measured in advance, and the glass composition placed at a predetermined location in the electric furnace was heated at the temperature of the predetermined location measured in advance. The temperature difference ΔT is the temperature difference obtained by subtracting the devitrification temperature from the working temperature.

[0227] In accordance with the alkali elution test defined in JIS R3502:1995 "Test Methods for Glass Apparatus for Chemical Analysis", the alkali elution amount was measured. Specifically, it is as follows. The glass sample was pulverized, passed through a sieve with an opening of 420 μm, and the particles remaining on a sieve with an opening of 250 μm were sieved. Next, from the sieved particles, particles with the same mass as the specific gravity of the glass sample were weighed. The weighed particles were immersed in 50 mL of distilled water at 100 °C for 1 hour, and then the alkali components contained in the water after immersion were titrated with sulfuric acid at a concentration of 0.01 N. By multiplying the number of milliliters of sulfuric acid required for titration by 0.31, the number of milligrams of the alkali component converted to Na2O was determined, and this was taken as the alkali elution amount. The smaller the alkali elution amount, the higher the water resistance of the glass sample.

[0228] The dielectric constant at a frequency of 1 GHz was measured using a dielectric constant measuring device by the cavity resonator perturbation method. The measurement temperature was 25 °C, and the dimensions of the sample for measurement were a rectangular parallelepiped with a height of 100 mm and a bottom surface that is a square with a side length of 1.5 mm.

[0229] Also, the number of bubbles was determined as follows. Ordinary glass raw materials such as silica sand were formulated, and batches of glass raw materials were prepared for each of the examples and comparative examples. Using an electric furnace, each 150 g batch was heated to 1500 - 1600 °C and melted, and maintained for 2 hours until the composition became uniform. The melting temperature was appropriately selected according to the glass composition, and this melting temperature was used as the test temperature in the evaluation of the number of bubbles. Thereafter, a part of the molten glass (glass melt) was poured out onto an iron plate and slowly cooled to room temperature in the electric furnace to obtain a glass sample. The number of bubbles in this glass sample was observed with an optical microscope, and the number of bubbles per 100 g of glass was calculated. Those with less than 4000 bubbles per 100 g of glass were designated as A, those with 4000 or more and less than 10000 were designated as B, those with 10000 or more and less than 20000 were designated as C, and those with 20000 or more were designated as D.

[0230] Furthermore, when the glass composition was irradiated with an ultraviolet lamp having a wavelength of 254 nm, the presence or absence of luminescence and its color were visually observed. These measurement results are shown in Tables 1 to 13. Note that the glass compositions in the tables are all values expressed in mass %.

[0231]

Table 1

[0232]

Table 2

[0233]

Table 3

[0234]

Table 4

[0235]

Table 5

[0236]

Table 6

[0237]

Table 7

[0238]

Table 8

[0239]

Table 9

[0240]

Table 10

[0241]

Table 11

[0242]

Table 12

[0243]

Table 13

[0244] The temperature difference ΔT (working temperature - devitrification temperature) of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76 was 3°C to 182°C. The alkali elution amount of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 16 was 0.06 to 0.32 mg. The dielectric constant at a frequency of 1 GHz of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 16 was 4.4 to 4.6. The number of bubbles of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76 was A to C. In any of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76, light emission by ultraviolet rays was observed.

[0245] On the other hand, in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 1, the content rate of T-SnO2 was outside the composition range defined in the present invention. Therefore, the number of bubbles in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 1 was D, which was larger than the number of bubbles in the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76. Also, in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 1, luminescence by ultraviolet rays was not observed.

[0246] In the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 2, the content rate of T-SnO2 was outside the composition range defined in the present invention. Therefore, the number of bubbles in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 2 was D, which was larger than the number of bubbles in the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76. Also, in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 2, luminescence by ultraviolet rays was not observed.

[0247] In the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 3, the content rate of T-SnO2 was outside the composition range defined in the present invention. Therefore, the number of bubbles in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 3 was D, which was larger than the number of bubbles in the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76. Also, in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 3, luminescence by ultraviolet rays was not observed.

[0248] In the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 4, the content rate of T-SnO2 was outside the composition range defined in the present invention. Therefore, ΔT of the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 4 was less than 0°C, which was smaller than ΔT of the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76.

[0249] In the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 5, the content rate of T-SnO2 was outside the composition range defined in the present invention. Therefore, the number of bubbles in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 5 was D, which was larger than the number of bubbles in the glass compositions obtained in Examples 1 to 76. Also, in the glass composition obtained in Comparative Example 5, luminescence by ultraviolet rays was not observed.

Claims

1. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 70, 26 < B 2 O 3 ≤ 40, 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 20 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) < 5, 0.1 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing the components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 based on mass is satisfied, a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 and The glass composition excludes photochromic glass containing CuO, CdO, and Cl.

2. In terms of mass percentage, 55.41 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 75、 20 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40、 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 20、 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) < 5, 0.1 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing the components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 based on mass is satisfied, a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 and The glass composition excludes photochromic glass containing CuO, CdO, and Cl.

3. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 75, 20 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40, 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 12.90 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) < 5, 0.1 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing the components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 based on mass is satisfied, a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 and The glass composition excludes photochromic glass containing CuO, CdO, and Cl.

4. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 75, 20 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40、 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 18、 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) < 5, 0.1 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing the components of (SiO₂ + B₂O₃) ≧ 81.33 in terms of mass percentage, and MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 based on mass is satisfied, a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 and The glass composition excludes photochromic glass containing CuO, CdO, and Cl.

5. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 65, the glass composition according to claim 1, 3 or 4.

6. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 24 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40, the glass composition according to any one of claims 2 to 4

7. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 5 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 20, the glass composition according to claim 1 or 2

8. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, The glass composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 4.

5.

9. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 0.1 ≤ Li 2 O ≤ 5, the glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 The glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein 0 < O < 0.

1.

11. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 0 ≤ F 2 ≤ 1, the glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. The glass composition, in terms of mass percentage, 0.1 ≤ CeO 2 ≤ 5, the glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. When the temperature at which the viscosity of the glass composition is 1000 dPa·sec is taken as the working temperature, the working temperature is 1450 °C or lower, the glass composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

14. When the temperature at which the viscosity of the glass composition is 1000 dPa·sec is taken as the working temperature, the temperature difference ΔT obtained by subtracting the devitrification temperature from the working temperature is 0 °C or higher, the glass composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

15. The glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the alkali elution amount of the glass composition measured in accordance with the alkali elution test defined in JIS R3502:1995 is 0.001 to 0.40 mg.

16. The glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the dielectric constant of the glass composition at a frequency of 1 GHz is 5.0 or less.

17. A glass filler composed of the glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 70, 26 < B 2 O 3 ≤ 40, 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 20、 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 10, 0 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 is satisfied, a glass filler composed of a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 .

19. In terms of mass percentage, 55.41 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 80, 10 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40、 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 20、 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 10, 0 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 is satisfied, a glass filler composed of a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 .

20. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 80, 10 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40、 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 12.90, 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 10, 0 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing components of MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 is satisfied, a glass filler composed of a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is the total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 .

21. In terms of mass percentage, 45 ≤ SiO 2 ≤ 80, 10 ≤ B 2 O 3 ≤ 40、 0.1 ≤ Al 2 O 3 ≤ 18、 0.1 ≦ (MgO + CaO) ≦ 10, 0 ≤ (Li 2 O + Na 2 O + K 2 O) ≤ 5, 0.1 ≤ T - SnO 2 ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ P 2 O 5 ≤ 0.2 containing components of In terms of mass percentage, (SiO₂ + B₂O₃) ≧ 81.33, and MgO / (MgO + CaO) > 0.5 is satisfied, a glass filler composed of a glass composition. However, T - SnO 2 is total tin oxide converted to SnO 2 .

22. The glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 21, which corresponds to at least one selected from the group consisting of flaky glass, chopped strand, milled fiber, glass powder, glass beads, flat fiber, and flaky glass.

23. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is flaky glass.

24. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is chopped strand.

25. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is milled fiber.

26. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is glass powder.

27. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is glass beads.

28. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is flat fiber.

29. The glass filler according to claim 22, which is flaky glass.

30. A glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 29, and a coating film formed on the surface of the glass filler, The coated glass filler, wherein the coating film contains a metal or a metal oxide as a main component.

31. A resin composition containing at least one selected from the glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 29 and the coated glass filler according to claim 30.

32. A paint containing at least one selected from the glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 29 and the coated glass filler according to claim 30.

33. An ink composition containing at least one selected from the glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 29 and the coated glass filler according to claim 30.

34. A cosmetic containing at least one selected from the glass filler according to any one of claims 17 to 29 and the coated glass filler according to claim 30.

35. A method for producing a glass filler, comprising a step of melting the glass composition according to any one of claims 1 to 16, and a step of shaping the melted glass composition into a glass filler. Method for producing a glass filler.

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