IGCC Announces Chemical Fingerprint Data Vault

The Insulating Glass Certification Council (IGCC), the leading provider of independent IG certification globally, along with the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance (IGMA) is pleased to announce a new program to advance the long-term performance of insulating glass units.

After several years of study, a motion was approved at the May 2017 IGCC/IGMA Certification Meeting, to provide an option to help determine if changes or variability in supplied materials has occurred to better understand variability in an IG total unit performance.  The end goal is the improvement of quality of dispensed components.

For fabricators to maintain IGCC/IGMA certification, Insulating Glass (IG) units are tested to the ASTM E2190 Insulating Glass Durability Standard Specifications and must meet performance and evaluation criteria.  However, if repeat testing produces unexpected results, what is a next step for the fabricator?

 “IGCC/IGMA is working with a recognized independent laboratory to test sealant components using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses.  We are setting up a program where the fabricator has an option to characterize the sealant components they use, and create a data vault based on known quality “chemical fingerprints”, in order to make future sealant comparisons,” said John G. Kent, the Administrator for the IGCC/IGMA certification Program.

The program is purely voluntary at this time. Fabricators are welcome to participate in the fingerprint process and create a vault for their company’s components, “pre” and/or “post” ASTM test weathering.

For more details and information on participation in the Fingerprint program, contact IGCC at 315-646-2234 or staff@amscert.com, attention Erin Ackley. Certain information & material will be required including samples that must be collected in a sterilized bottle (provided by IGCC).