Encasing Copper in Soda Lime Glass
1One of the few materials on Earth with the same coefficient of expansion as Soda Lime Glass(and most borosilicates) Which allows for contraction and expansion during the annealing cycle. So far I have had similar luck with mild steel as well, and also most of the family of silicon bronzes. The major problem is that most other materials cannot withstand the heat and pressure involved in the medium, I mean sure ceramics and other materials comprised mostly of silica will go well, but lack any real interest when encased. Also the tendency of heat scale and discoloration are another factor. Forget people, they most likely will char terribly before encasing is complete, aside from the moisture that would instantly be released (causing undesireable bubbles and a less than appetizing smell)You would also be confronted with the mechanics of casting close to three thousand pounds of glass instantly into whatever flask you have constructed, followed by a month long annealing cycle(possibly more). However it is concievable to first bronze the body of a person and then encase the casting in a slab of glass. I feel this lacks the same impact though.