Solutia, a subsidiary of Eastman Chemical Co., EnerLogic VEP35 Low-E Window Film

The Technical Award in the Other Category went to EnerLogic VEP35 Low-E Window Film from Solutia, an Eastman Chemical Co. subsidiary in Fieldale, Virginia, which also took home the AIMCAL Technology of the Year Award.    

The patent-pending low-emissivity window film delivers an emissivity rating of 0.07, a substantial improvement over the 0.33 level of the next best performing low-e film. The low-e structure maximizes energy savings by reflecting heat from the sun in the summer and directing radiant heat back into the room during the winter. As a result, applying the film boosts insulating ability equal to adding a pane of glass at a fraction of the cost of a replacement window. In fact, the film delivers 92 percent more insulating performance as measured by center-of-glass R value. The 2-mil clear PET with ultraviolet absorbers and multiple coatings maintains flexibility, limits stress cracking, and prevents smudges and scratches. Return-on-investment for large commercial buildings averages 2.75 years and the material may qualify for energy rebates and favorable ratings from Green Building certification programs.

Judges Comments

With its combination of coating technologies and superior emissivity level, the judges characterized this window film as a technological breakthrough.