The role of glass continues to expand in architecture as new performance properties and aesthetic qualities come to market in a steady flow. From photovoltaic glazing to printing technologies that address the issue of avian impacts, the material has become an active, dynamic force in buildings.
(Courtesy Guardian Glass)
SunGuard SNX 51/23
Guardian
For commercial use, this high-performance, low-E glass has a VLT above 50 percent and a solar heat gain coefficient below .25.
(Courtesy PPG)Solarban z75
PPG
Featuring a neutral, cool-gray tint, this low-emissivity glass offers an intelligent combination of visible light transmittance, solar control, and light control.
(Courtesy View Glass)View Dynamic Glass
View
As the sun intensifies, a nanotech interlayer regulates an electric current that shifts ions in the glass, automatically darkening them. Offered in panels up to 5 feet by 10 feet.
(Courtesy Arnold Glas)Ornilux Mikado
Arnold Glas
This bird-protection glass features a patterned UV coating that is visible to birds, but virtually transparent to the human eye.
i-Glass
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope
This screenless technology can print multiple colors and complex designs on exterior and interior glass.
(Courtesy Sage Glass)LightZone
SageGlass
Variable tint zones within a single pane of electrochromic glass allows great flexibility for managing solar heat gain and glare.
(Courtesy Saint Gobain)CLASS Sapphire
Saint Gobain
In sheets up to 9 inches by 26 inches and 12 inches by 24 inches, this transparent ballistic-resistant material achieves a 40 percent lighter and 40 percent thinner system than a glass-only design.
(Courtesy Viracon)DigitalDistinctions Etch Ink
Viracon
This ink simulates the look of acid-etched or colored-etched glass without high-pressure sand blasting or dangerous acids.
