Search Results

Enhanced protective glass (EPG), which offers increased intrusion resistance compared to standard laminated glass, has been requested by several automakers worldwide. Depending on the required level of intrusion resistance, the performance of EPG is increased by modulating the mechanical properties of the interlayers. While standard EPG performs to today's specifications, testing reveals new composite PVB / PET / PVB interlayers have resulted in EPG that shows significantly improved impact resistance (resistance to penetration) as well as laminate stiffness after breakage of glass (resistance to pullout). This paper presents the results of performance evaluation of these new interlayers for EPG applications and compares them with commercially available PVB interlayers. In addition, the head-injury criteria (HIC) values of EPG with the new interlayers are discussed.

This paper summarizes joint efforts by Monsanto Company and Excel Industries to develop a cost effective integrated system for automotive sidelites to achieve improved occupant retention. A cost/ performance analysis of a proprietary polyurethane RIM attachment system in combination with two candidate laminate structures (Monsanto “experimental plastic”/ tempered bilaminate + annealed glass/polyvinyl butyral/ annealed glass trilaminate) was completed. While both systems yielded high energy containment capabilities, the trilaminate system was rated higher because it showed superior membrane characteristics after impact and significantly lower fabrication costs. It was determined that such a system could be implemented for an incremental cost of < $100 per vehicle.