Guardian Glass Europe has launched SunGuard SNX 70, the latest product in its SunGuard eXtraSelective range of solar control glass.

The company’s newest addition is a new triple silver-coated glass that boasts outstanding solar control and light transmission of around 70 per cent and high thermal insulation. It also has a uniquely clean, natural appearance and a subtle reflective quality that achieves a strikingly uniform aesthetic across design contours and different viewing angles, the company said in a statement.

For architects, SunGuard SNX 70 offers the opportunity to introduce more natural light, possibility of improvements in energy efficiency and comfort for inhabitants, along with a superior design aesthetic. This in turn can lead to enhanced wellbeing for occupants and is particularly relevant for office, healthcare and educational buildings, where higher levels of natural light could help encourage focus, recovery and learning.

Guardian Glass’ SunGuard SNX 70: no compromise on looks

The glass is especially effective when combined with Guardian UltraClear as a base – available as SunGuard SNX 70 Ultra. In standard double insulating units this provides 68 per cent light transmission, 32 per cent solar factor, and a Ug value of 1.0 W/m2K. Just as impressive, in standard triple glazed units it offers 62 per cent light transmission, 30 per cent solar factor and a Ug value of 0.5 W/m2K. The glass’ superior transparency also means that views from both inside and out are truer in colour.

SunGuard SNX 70 can also assist environmental certification, said the company. As part of the SunGuard range in Europe and Russia, SunGuard SNX 70 has an EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) and has been independently assessed under the Cradle to Cradle Certified Products program, where it’s certified Bronze.

Aesthetically the glass’ external reflection of 13 per cent can bring an elegant character to buildings – helping them appear more alive in their surroundings and offering greater visual appeal to passers-by.

Andras Kovacs, Product Manager – Commercialisation at Guardian Glass Europe, said: “Architects have often had to compromise on the overall look of a facade when it comes to high performance glass. Now SNX 70 offers the perfect balance of solar control, natural light transmission and a strikingly clean aesthetic.”

SNX 70 is available in both annealed and heat treatable versions (HT).

Guardian Glass, a major business unit of Guardian Industries, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of float, coated and fabricated glass products. With 26 float lines worldwide, Guardian produces high performance glass for exterior and interior use, commercial and residential building projects, and transportation and engineered products.