The mechanics of glass and functionalised glass surfaces

Glass is highly sensitive to surface flaws generated by contact. Surface cracks threaten both its mechanical strength and visual aspect. Recent trends in glass functionalisation by grafting or coating lend an even more prominent role to the surface. For these reasons, the glass surface mechanics, which couples surface physico-chemistry with mechanical response, must be considered in details to optimize glass processing and products. We review a few recent advances in the field of glass surface mechanics, with special emphasis on the local ductility of silicate glasses and the mechanical stability of films and coatings.