For a quarter-century, SentryGlas® ionoplast interlayer by Kuraray has transformed architectural projects, offering a superior alternative to polyvinyl butyral (PVB), the longstanding laminated glass interlayer since the 1930s. Initially launched as SentryGlas® Plus or SGP to distinguish it from early hurricane glazing composites, the name was later simplified to SentryGlas®. Initially available in 60- and 90-mil sheets, the product range expanded over time to include 35-mil sheets for both hurricane and architectural markets, as well as 35-mil rolls, an impressive achievement given the stiffness of the material. In 2012, SentryGlas® White was introduced, further broadening its applications in vertical and overhead structures.
Stiffness: A key property
The stiffness of SentryGlas® is crucial for minimally supported glass applications, significantly enhancing post-breakage performance. Unlike traditional plasticised interlayers, SentryGlas® is extruded without plasticisers, preventing delamination in “open edge” applications. This feature made it invaluable for architects moving away from traditional glazing systems. Dr. Stephen Bennison, Technical Fellow at Kuraray, noted that SentryGlas® enables efficient coupling of glass, resulting in stronger, structurally efficient laminates that maintain performance even at elevated temperatures of 50°C (122°F) and above. This allows for the design of thinner, lighter, and larger laminates with superior structural performance.
Partnership with Pilkington’s planar™ system
In the mid-2000s, a partnership was formed with Pilkington, leading to the development of the Planar™/SentryGlas® System. This collaboration combined Pilkington’s engineering expertise with DuPont’s scientific knowledge to create a state-of-the-art bolted glass system. Compared to PVB laminates, SentryGlas® solutions are 15% thinner and 66% stronger, offering significant advantages in structural efficiency.
Global impact and iconic projects
SentryGlas® made its European debut with the Endesa Headquarters in Madrid, featuring an expansive atrium roof and façades constructed with laminated glass. The project, built between 2001 and 2003, utilised 861 point-fixed laminated glass panes in various shapes and sizes, all with three-layer construction of 90-mil SentryGlas®. Another notable project is the Shanghai Oriental Arts Center, which opened in 2004. This cultural venue features laminated glass façades combined with perforated metal sheeting for sun screening, showcasing the design versatility of SentryGlas®
The Grand Canyon Skywalk, which opened in 2007, exemplifies SentryGlas®’s capabilities. This U-shaped observation platform extends seventy feet over the canyon’s edge, 4,000 feet above the Colorado River, and features multiple glass plies of Saint-Gobain Diamant glass and SentryGlas® interlayer. The project required a collaboration of architects, engineers, construction experts, and glass suppliers to ensure safety, strength, stiffness, and optical clarity, providing visitors with an unparalleled experience of floating above the canyon.
The future of SentryGlas®
The twenty-five-year history of SentryGlas® has significantly impacted laminated glass usage, enabling a new class of structural laminated glass. Its introduction, along with advanced design tools and know-how, has made daring architectural projects possible, where the stiffness and strength of the laminate are critical to performance. The ability of SentryGlas® to maintain structural integrity post-breakage is vital for applications such as glass fins, canopies, and railings. Its structural efficiency also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of façades by minimising the amount of glass and supporting materials needed.
For more details on the product, contact
Kuraray India Pvt. Ltd.
A-110, Boomerang Building, Chandivali Farm Road, Chandivali, Andheri East – Mumbai 400072, Maharashtra INDIA
Sumit Banerjee Manager – Sales & Marketing – India
Website: www.kuraray.com
Email: sumit.banerjee@kuraray.com
Phone: +91- 9987556733
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