What is the type of glass typically used in car windshields?

The type of glass typically used in car windshields is laminated glass. Laminated glass consists of two layers of glass with a thin layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) in between. This PVB layer holds the two pieces of glass together, providing increased safety, as it prevents the glass from shattering upon impact. In the event of an accident, laminated glass will crack but not break apart, which helps to protect the passengers inside the vehicle from flying glass shards and offers enhanced structural integrity.

Other types of glass, such as tempered glass, are commonly used in side and rear windows, but they shatter into small pieces upon impact, which can be hazardous. Lexan, while a durable polycarbonate material often used in certain applications, is not typically used for windshields. Annealed glass, a type of glass that has not been tempered or treated, is not ideal for cars due to its tendency to break more dangerously than laminated glass. Thus, laminated glass is specifically designed for windshields to maximize safety for the occupants of the vehicle.