PPG And iGlass Collaborate On Dimmable Automotive Sunroofs

The glazing comprises iGlass polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) switchable thin film, which offers rapid light transmission switching and excellent optical clarity, sandwiched between two plies of special PPG glass.The result is a glazing product with excellent thermal and optical performance as well as high durability and reliability, according to Dick Heilman, PPG strategic marketing director for automotive glass.



“This new glass product offers drivers the capability to switch electrically from a clear transparent view to an opaque surface, providing privacy and sun protection to occupants and objects within the vehicle,” Heilman said. “By combining the iGlass switchable film with Sungate or GL-20 solar control glass by PPG, we have created an attractive product for the automotive market.”



PPG will market the glass for sunroof applications in new vehicles as well as the aftermarket, but it can also be used in glazing areas such as rear quarter-windows or rear truck windows, Heilman said.



“We are very excited about working with PPG to introduce this technology to the automotive sunroof market,” said Johnny Pak, chief executive officer, iGlass. “We have already had success with thin film use for switchable architectural glass products, in commercial and residential windows as well as interior room partition walls, and we look forward to expanding its applications.”