Briefing: Is glass a solid or a super slow liquid?

Physicists at Utrecht University have conducted research indicating that glass can exist in an equilibrium glassy phase, which contradicts traditional views that classify glass solely as a solid.

This study highlights the potential for glass-like structures to behave similarly to a super slow liquid under certain conditions, which may have implications for material science and engineering.

The findings, published on March 18, 2026, could reshape the understanding of glass materials and their applications in various industries, emphasizing the need for further exploration of their properties.