Laminated glass, a revolutionary innovation with origins dating back to the early 20th century, has significantly transformed the safety and durability of glass applications.
The discovery by French chemist Édouard Bénédictus in 1903 of a plastic interlayer that secured broken glass pieces set the stage for unprecedented advancements in safety glass technology.
The Early Years – Pioneering Safety
Before 1998, the primary interlayer used in laminated glass was polyvinyl butyral (PVB), developed in the 1930s through collaborative efforts of leading industry scientists. The flexibility and durability of PVB made it a game-changer for enhancing the safety of glass installations. By bonding two glass plies with PVB, fabricators created a monolithic unit that retained glass shards post-breakage, ensuring improved safety standards.
In subsequent years, regulatory bodies like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) established stringent safety standards for glass applications in automobiles and buildings. These standards emphasized the use of tempered or laminated glass to minimize injury risks in case of glass breakage, underscoring the vital role of safety in glass manufacturing.
Introduction of SentryGlas® Interlayer:
The catastrophic impact of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 on South Florida underscored the urgent need for advanced protection against extreme weather conditions. Traditional PVB interlayers proved insufficient in withstanding the rigorous testing requirements for impact resistance. Recognizing this need, the introduction of the SentryGlas® (SG®) interlayer, a stiffer and more resilient alternative to PVB, marked a significant breakthrough in enhancing property safety and resilience.
Over the years, SentryGlas® interlayer has emerged as a global standard for impact systems, offering unparalleled protection against severe weather events. Its innovative design and durability have revolutionized the laminated glass industry, ensuring structures can withstand external forces and safeguard occupants and properties alike.
Certification of Hurricane Systems with SentryGlas®
Unlike conventional testing protocols, the certification of glass products in hurricane-prone regions like South Florida mandated rigorous testing and adherence to performance standards. The issuance of Notices of Acceptance (NOA) signified the compliance of products with established safety regulations, instilling confidence in homeowners and building managers regarding the resilience of their properties.
As we commemorate the 25th Anniversary of SentryGlas® interlayer, we celebrate its enduring legacy in fortifying laminated glass systems worldwide and setting new benchmarks for safety and reliability in the face of escalating challenges. The evolution of laminated glass technology stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of excellence in enhancing safety and security across diverse applications.
Source: Trofisol with additional information added by GlassBalkan
