Glass: ultimate versatility

Coated glass, whether laminated or assembled into double or triple glazing, gives increased protection against cold (by reflecting heat back into the building) and against heat (by reflecting away the rays of the sun). In fact both functions are generally combined, thus assuring not only better energy control but also protection of the environment. Such types of glass make an important contribution to "zero energy" buildings while letting in daylight everywhere. In the automotive industry they reduce heating in the passenger cell by blocking out the sun's infrared radiation.

Active glass with variable light transmission switches from clear to dark at the touch of a button. The amount of light and heat getting into the car interior can be constantly varied to suit the needs or the moods of the moment.

Laminated or toughened safety glass guards against injury and protects property against vandalism or break-in. Fire-resistant glass protects against fire by reducing or even entirely blocking heat radiation for anything from 30 to 120 minutes, depending on its composition. Acoustic insulation glass protects against external noise nuisance and contributes towards the health and peace of mind of the building occupants. Finally, anti-UV glass helps to prevent skin damage.

Glass enhances building exteriors and the design of vehicles. Inside it contributes light and space and permits personalisation. In fact there are endless decorative possibilities for combining the aesthetic with the practical: glass can be mirrored, lacquered, screen-printed, patterned, electroluminescent, anti-reflection, highly transparent ...

In laminated form incorporating photovoltaic cells, glass is able to generate electricity while letting in light. The amounts of energy and light can be varied according to the number and arrangement of the cells within the glass. This offers an economic solution when such glass is used to replace structural elements (e.g. roof panels) rather than being added to them. Electricity can also be generated by mirror glass focusing light onto a central element connected to a generator. 

Glass with built-in LEDs without visible wiring can be used to create images, for example in signs (illuminated logos) or even animated images on building facades. Another application is head-up displays for cars, where the instruments appear to float in the windscreen. Glass with built-in antennae permits a range of services (traffic information, entertainment etc.) and connects between one vehicle and another or between the vehicle and roadside infrastructure. Finally, the protection and light transmission properties of glass come into their own in high-tech touchscreen applications.