Sustainability, Circular Systems Take Center Stage at glasstec

Sustainability is a central theme at glasstec 2024, which is being held at the Messe Düsseldorf in Dusseldorf, Germany. The four-day international trade show hosts a diverse list of glass and glazing companies that are part of the race to curb carbon emissions throughout the built environment. Companies worldwide have designed and engineered climate-focused applications, from Kuraray’s new interlayer Trosifol R3 to Eastman’s Saflex LiteCarbon Clear.

“Sustainability is essential for most companies because we have to lower carbon emissions and the impact costs of energy for users,” says Dave Robson, sales director for CoolTemper. “We’ve spent the past few years developing and patenting new systems to save companies money. Our systems are starting to get out into the market now.”

Robson says one system is already out, a convection tempering furnace featuring a newly developed Dynamic Quench and Dynamic Windbox system, which CoolTemper supplied to South Africa-based PG Glass. The system helps the furnace save between 10% and 35% on the energy of the quench kilowatt power usage on varying glass loads. CoolTemper can shut off sections of the quench that are not actually required, explains Robson.

Everlam is also embracing sustainability. The Belgian company offers a PVB-based interlayer that weighs 20% less than standard interlayers, is CEKAL-approved and features improved raw material yields.

“As a company, we are moving toward a lower carbon footprint,” says James Stammers, North American regional sales manager. “Sourcing in our raw material supply is a big focus going forward.”

A Glimpse into the Future at glasstec 2024

The Glass Technology Live (GTL) showcase is among the many statement pieces of glasstec. The showcase highlights future technologies and includes an exhibition featuring companies and various universities. It also offers educational sessions and exhibits from industry and science professionals.

Running alongside GTL is CircuClarity One, an initiative highlighting resource-friendly solutions for glass processing and products. It features speakers, demonstrations and exhibits, such as Hegla’s IG2Pieces system, which separates glass lites, allowing them to be recycled and reused, and an exhibit displaying the materials involved in the glass-making process.

Other exhibits include an interactive stand with photovoltaic modules supplied by LandGlass Technology. The exhibit consists of various photovoltaic modules mounted on a substructure. The modules are equipped with 3.2-mm cadmium telluride photovoltaic cells and 1.14-mm PVB. It shows the possibility of how dynamic glass can reduce energy costs and improve occupant comfort.

With a focus on reuse, TU Delft researchers displayed glass concepts designed from recycled waste glass. The researchers say they’ve developed cast glass panels that could be used in façade cladding, interior partitions and other areas of the built environment.

glasstec 2024 continues through Friday in Düsseldorf, Germany. Stay tuned to USGNN for more news and reports from the show.