Porcelain is generally more durable than glass. While both materials are brittle and can break under pressure, porcelain is known for its hardness and resistance to chipping and cracking. This durability is due to the high firing temperatures and the crystalline structure that porcelain develops during the manufacturing process.

The hardness of porcelain is measured using the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond). Porcelain typically falls between 5.5 and 7 on this scale, making it significantly harder than glass, which is around 5.5 to 6.5. This hardness contributes to porcelain's ability to withstand impacts and maintain its structural integrity better than glass.

Additionally, porcelain is less likely to shatter into sharp pieces when it breaks. This is because porcelain is made from clay, feldspar, and quartz, which are bound together by vitreous (glass-like) bonds. When porcelain breaks, it tends to shatter into large, irregular pieces with rounded edges, reducing the risk of injury. In contrast, glass shatters into sharp, jagged pieces that can cause cuts and lacerations.

Data from the American Ceramic Society supports these claims. According to their research, porcelain has a tensile strength of up to 100 MPa, while glass has a tensile strength of around 50 MPa. This means that porcelain can withstand more stress before breaking. Furthermore, porcelain has a higher resistance to thermal shock, which is the ability to withstand sudden temperature changes without cracking or breaking. Porcelain can withstand temperature changes of up to 200 degrees Celsius without damage, whereas glass can only handle up to 100 degrees Celsius.

In conclusion, porcelain is more durable than glass due to its higher hardness, tensile strength, and resistance to thermal shock. These properties make porcelain a preferred material for applications where durability and safety are crucial, such as in kitchenware, dinnerware, and decorative items.