A Guide to Understanding the Different Types of Interlayer Film

Interlayer films are meant to improve the characteristics and performance of the composite structure of your glass project or architectural glass. They perform various functions, including UV protection, acoustic insulation, safety, and security.

Understanding interlayer films requires considering several variables, including material composition, thickness, mechanical characteristics, and application-specific needs. Manufacturers frequently modify interlayer films to satisfy particular requirements, changing characteristics like flexibility, adhesion strength, optical qualities, or chemical resistance.

A Guide to Understanding the Different Types of Interlayer Film

These films join various glass layers, improving performance, security, and safety. You can choose the best interlayer film for your application by being knowledgeable about various available varieties.

Here is a guide to assist you in comprehending the various interlayer film types:

Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) Film

• PVB film is the most widely used interlayer film in laminated glass applications.
• It provides excellent adhesion between glass layers and has high transparency.
• PVB films offer improved sound insulation, UV protection, and impact resistance.

They are commonly used in automotive windshields, architectural glass, and safety glass applications.

PVB film is commonly used in laminated safety glass; when the glass breaks, the PVB film holds the shattered pieces together, reducing the risk of injury from flying glass shards. It enhances the safety of occupants and prevents break-ins or thefts.

Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Film

• EVA film is another popular choice for laminated glass.
• It has good transparency and can be customized for different levels of tint and color.
• EVA films offer excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to yellowing over time.

They are commonly used in architectural glass, solar panels, and decorative laminated glass applications.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) Film

• TPU film is a flexible and durable interlayer material.
• It offers high-impact resistance and toughness, making it suitable for demanding applications.
• TPU films have good optical clarity and UV resistance.

They find applications in automotive glazing, security glass, and where flexibility is required.

Ionoplast Interlayer Film

• Ionoplast films, such as SentryGlas® from DuPont, are known for their exceptional strength and stiffness.
• They provide superior post-breakage behavior, retaining the glass fragments and maintaining the structure's integrity.
• Ionoplast films offer high resistance to temperature, moisture, and yellowing.

They are often used in structural glazing, hurricane-resistant glass, and high-security applications.

Specialty Films

Apart from the above-mentioned interlayer films, various specialty films are available for specific applications.

Optical Films are used in various electronic displays, including LCDs, OLEDs, and touchscreens, to enhance visibility, improve contrast, reduce glare, and provide privacy.

Barrier films are designed to offer high resistance to moisture, oxygen, and other gases.

Security Films are manufactured to protect against tampering, counterfeiting, or unauthorized access.

Decorative films add visual appeal, patterns, colors, or textures to various surfaces. They are often applied to windows, glass panels, or furniture to create privacy, enhance aesthetics, or provide branding opportunities.

Consider aspects including safety standards, aesthetic preferences, performance qualities, and environmental circumstances when choosing an interlayer film. Consulting industry professionals might make finding the best interlayer film for your particular application easier. Contact our team at E & N TECHNOLOGY to order interlayer film for your requirements.