This book elucidates the particular nature of glass, considers the behavior of glass melts in the sequence of the manufacturing process, and treats the structure of rigid glasses. The characteristics properties of glasses are deduced from their chemical composition, including nonsilicate glasses, nonoxide glasses and metallic glasses. Subsequently, the book treats measurement techniques for the properties of glasses, as well as the influences of composition, temperature and history. This discussion places particular emphasis on the newest advances in the development of glasses with increased rigidity, and improved optical, chemical and electrical properties. Newly added to this edition are sections on the glass surface and on sol-gel processes. This book is intended not only as an introductory text for students of glassy materials, but also as a practical aid for research and applications.