As a material science expert with a focus on household products, I've had the opportunity to study and analyze various types of dinnerware, including the Corelle brand. Corelle dinnerware is renowned for its durability and resistance to damage, which is a testament to the quality of its materials and manufacturing processes. Let's delve into the properties of Corelle plates and the factors that contribute to their breakage.

**Material Composition and Tempering Process**
Corelle plates are made from a special type of glass known as "vitrified" or "tempered" glass. This material is created through a process that involves heating the glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This process increases the density and strength of the glass, making it more resistant to chipping, scratching, and breaking compared to regular glass or other types of dinnerware.

Break-Resistant vs. Unbreakable
It's important to clarify that while Corelle plates are marketed as "break-resistant," they are not "unbreakable." The term "break-resistant" indicates that the product is designed to withstand more force and impact than typical dinnerware without breaking. However, no material is completely immune to damage, and extreme force or improper handling can still result in breakage.

Factors Affecting Breakage
Several factors can influence the likelihood of a Corelle plate breaking:


1. Impact Force: The amount of force applied to the plate can determine whether it breaks. A strong impact, such as dropping the plate from a significant height or hitting it with a heavy object, can cause it to shatter.


2. Surface Contact: The type of surface the plate comes into contact with during a fall can also play a role. A hard, unyielding surface is more likely to cause breakage than a softer, more forgiving surface.


3. Temperature Changes: Sudden and extreme changes in temperature can cause stress within the glass, potentially leading to cracks or breakage. For example, placing a hot Corelle plate directly into cold water can cause thermal shock.


4. Product Age and Wear: Over time, the structural integrity of any material can degrade. Older Corelle plates or those that have been heavily used may be more susceptible to breakage than new ones.


5. Design and Manufacturing Variations: While Corelle maintains high standards in production, there can be slight variations in the manufacturing process that affect the strength of individual plates.

Proper Care and Handling
To maximize the longevity of Corelle plates, it's essential to handle them with care. Avoid dropping them, expose them to extreme temperature changes, or subject them to heavy impacts. Additionally, regular inspection for any signs of damage, such as chips or cracks, can help prevent unexpected breakage.

In conclusion, while Corelle plates are designed to be highly resistant to breakage, they are not indestructible. By understanding the factors that can contribute to breakage and taking proper care, you can enjoy the benefits of this durable dinnerware for a long time.

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Corelle? Dinnerware - Vitrelle? Glass Use & Care. ... ALL GLASS, PORCELAIN AND STONEWARE CAN BE BROKEN and care should be taken in handling. A drop or knock against a hard object may cause immediate breakage or enough damage so that the item breaks later for no apparent reason.read more >>