Safety glass consisting of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer, typically PVB, that holds the glass fragments together when broken for enhanced security and safety.
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with one or more plastic interlayers, most commonly Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB). When broken, the interlayer holds the glass fragments together, preventing dangerous shards from separating.
The laminating process involves placing the PVB film between glass layers and using heat and pressure in an autoclave to permanently bond the materials together, creating a single structural unit.
Key Features
- Fragment Retention: Broken glass adheres to the interlayer, reducing injury risk
- Security Protection: Difficult to penetrate, providing barrier against intrusion
- Sound Dampening: PVB interlayer reduces noise transmission significantly
- UV Protection: Blocks up to 99% of harmful UV radiation
- Design Flexibility: Available in various thicknesses and configurations
- Weather Resistance: Maintains integrity under extreme weather conditions
Benefits
Laminated glass offers multiple benefits beyond basic safety. The PVB interlayer provides excellent sound insulation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It also offers superior security compared to tempered glass, as it’s much more difficult to breach.
The UV-blocking properties help protect interior furnishings from fading and provide additional occupant comfort.
Common Applications
- Windshields: Standard in automotive applications for safety and visibility
- Glass Repairs: Replacement of damaged laminated glass in residential and commercial settings
- Commercial Glazing: Storefronts and office buildings for security and noise control
- Residential Windows: High-end homes for security and sound reduction
- Skylights: Overhead glazing where falling glass presents safety concerns
- Bulletproof Glass: Multiple layers for high-security applications
- Hurricane Protection: Impact-resistant glazing for severe weather areas
For detailed technical specifications, see the Laminated glass Wikipedia page.