Which type of glass is used in automobile windshields for safety?

Laminated glass is specifically designed for safety in automobile windshields. It consists of two layers of glass with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) sandwiched between them. This construction prevents the glass from shattering upon impact; instead, it tends to crack in a spider-web pattern while remaining adhered to the PVB layer. This feature is crucial in protecting vehicle occupants during an accident, as it helps prevent injuries from shattered glass and keeps the windshield intact to maintain structural integrity.

In contrast, tempered glass, while stronger and shatter-resistant, tends to break into small, harmless pieces when shattered, which can pose a risk to occupants. Annealed glass is simply manufactured and does not go through any tempering process, making it the least safe option for automotive applications. Coated glass refers to glass that has been treated with a coating to provide additional functionality, but it does not specifically relate to safety in the context of windshield construction. Thus, laminated glass stands out for its protective features in automotive design.