Overview of Laminated Glass Features

Laminated glass is composed of a layer of Poly Vinyl Butyral (PVB) sandwiched between two or more glass panes. This structure not only maintains the geometric integrity of the pane upon impact but also provides excellent acoustic insulation and shields against 99% of UV radiation, ensuring the longevity of interiors. Commonly recognized as a safety glass, laminated glass is ideal for areas where human impact might occur or where glass could fall if shattered, such as in shopfronts and car windshields.

Composition and Applications

Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) is a resin known for its strong binding, optical clarity, and flexibility, commonly used in the automotive industry for windshields under trade names like BUTACITE, SAFLEX, and TROSIFOL. The standard PVB layer is 0.38 mm thick, increasing in multiples thereof, making it effective not only for impact resistance but also for superior sound insulation and nearly complete UV blocking.

Properties of Laminated Glass

• PVB Thickness: Available in 0.38mm, 0.76mm, 1.14mm, and 1.52mm

• Colors: A range of colors from clear to vibrant hues like red and blue

• Light and Energy Control: Offers up to 89% visible light transmittance with a shading coefficient of 0.92, and UV screening of up to 99% up to 380 nm

• Strength and Durability: Boasts a tensile strength of 3220 psi and low thermal conductivity, maintaining its color and strength over time.

Safety and Security Benefits

The principal advantage of laminated glass in safety applications is that the PVB interlayer absorbs energy upon impact, keeping the glass fragments bonded, thereby minimizing injury risk. For security, it provides a robust barrier against burglaries, maintaining its protective barrier even when shattered.

Acoustic and Solar Energy Management

Laminated glass is an excellent choice for reducing noise transmission through windows and doors, effectively blocking frequencies from 125 Hz to 4000 Hz. It also helps manage solar energy when combined with reflective or low-e glass, reducing heat gain while allowing natural light.

Weather and Disaster Protection

In regions prone to severe weather such as hurricanes or cyclones, laminated glass ensures durability and protection. Designed to remain intact and in its frame during high winds and heavy rains, it significantly reduces the risk of injury from flying debris.

Visual Quality

Manufactured primarily in an annealed form, laminated glass minimizes visual distortions, which makes it ideal for use in building facades where clarity and sharp reflected images are desired.