Influences of laboratory and natural weathering on the durability of laminated safety glass

Frank Ensslen, Semcoglas Holding GmbH

Beside known influences on the shear behavior of laminated safety glass (LSG) as interlayer temperature, loading rate and load duration, further effects result from climatic load (e.g. longterm exposure of ultraviolet radiation, moisture and air temperature), especially for outdoor applications. Experimental investigations show that moisture penetration of PVB-interlayer at the glass edge zones is a major influencing factor on the durability of LSG. Hence, shear behavior and adhesion characteristics change. Concerning large-scale architectural LSG panes carrying wind, snow and dead load no significant endangering of their structural safety occurs due to a local deterioration of the interlayer, only. In order to avoid visual damage of LSG in environments with access of high humidity (e.g. rain), it is recommended to protect edges thoroughly and effectively. Aging of the interlayer due to UV-radiation and air temperature is dependent on its intensity and duration, however, resulting in a stiffer material behavior, but not affecting the structural safety.

Full text article [527 KB]

The Authors

Dr. Frank Ensslen Technical Advisory Service Semcoglas Holding GmbH Frank Ensslen, born 1971, received his civil engineering degree from Darmstadt University of Technology in 1998, after priorly preparing his diploma thesis at Northwestern University, Evanston (USA). ... Read more