Date: 15 October 2009
Developed at the company's R&D Centre in Jumet (Belgium, Wallonia), these types of glass guarantee maximum transmission of light and energy in the solar spectrum.At 91.5% and 91%* respectively (compared with 89.5% and 85% for ordinary glass) their transmission factor is close to the theoretical limits posed by optical physics, namely 92% for both light and energy. As such they meet not only the aesthetic requirements for contemporary architecture in search of light-filled spaces in neutral colours, but also the very high performance demanded by the rapidly growing solar power industry. These types of extra-clear glass are used for solar panels and solar mirrors, and also to make covers for thermal collectors. Their surface may be either patterned or flat (float glass, in the latter case).
Furthermore, the new glass types are also produced in Wallonia. The Moustier plant, the largest glass producer in Europe, manufactures extra-clear flat glass as well as glass with a conductive coating. The Roux plant for its part is the only unit in the group entirely reconverted to production of solar glass, in patterned form. "Together with our solar mirrors, these products represent a complete range of solar solutions for manufacturers in constant search of technological progress," says Jean-François Heris, President and Chief Executive Officer of AGC Glass Europe.
The award ceremony was attended by numerous personalities from the worlds of Belgian politics, science and business.
(*) For glass with a thickness of 4 mm.
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