My focal research theme for the future will be sustainable glass structures. I am particularly interested in laminated glass with thin glass, energy generating façades, and both greened and recyclable façades. They should be safe, efficient and recyclable. To achieve this, we have to find and break new ground in existing and new buildings. We see great potential here for our industry to sustainably conserve and further develop our building culture.”
The “glass melting pot” session is held as part of the glasstec conference, glasstec’s high-calibre accompanying programme. Why is this session a highlight at glasstec?
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann: “Well, ‘glass technology live’ at glasstec showcases exhibits and ideas in a way that is playful, experimental and application-oriented. As the result of the latest research from both industry and science, these exhibits and ideas mirror the topics addressed in the industry and point to what the future of glass might look like.
Compared to ‘glass technology live’ what is special about ‘glass melting pot’ is the very entertaining, condensed and concise explanation of the exhibits displayed there. We want to bring the exhibited innovations to life with ‘spot-on’ pitches presented alongside each exhibit. This promotes the transfer of research ideas to application and vice versa. We wish to leverage this illustrative format to ‘lend wings’ to expert discussions, exchange and interaction.”
Can you already reveal anything about the exciting ideas or projects submitted?
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann: “Trade fair visitors can, indeed, look forward to an extensive and exciting exhibition with side events during ’glass technology live’. Water-filled and switchable façade elements have been and still are interesting. Another mega-theme is thin glass, its testing and downstream processing as well as possible applications. Let me mention custom-designed façades, additive manufacturing as well as structural glass with defined fire resistance as just some examples alongside many other topics here.”
Why do you think glasstec is a “must-attend” event for the (glass) industry – also for the sector of architecture?
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann: “The comprehensive industry presence facilitates an excellent exchange of ideas, trends and innovations among all glass industry players on an international level. The trade fair provides a relevant platform to experience the latest technologies, products and services in the field of glass, to understand trends and is THE chance of showcasing innovations. glasstec offers outstanding networking opportunities and promotes in-depth exchange between experts in a number of dialogue formats over the course of the trade fair week.
Architecture and construction have mutually inspired each other since time immemorial. glasstec allows architects to discover innovative glass applications that fulfil aesthetic and functional requirements. There is a strong trend towards sustainable building. glasstec presents solutions that contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings.
The trade fair is a platform for creative ideas, refreshing inspirations and stimulating communication. Architects can see new concepts and designs that they can adapt to their projects.”
What do you see as future trends in the glass sector, what does the material that is glass have in store for us?
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann: “A strong focus will definitely be on making glass structures lighter using innovative new products. With this in mind, glass assemblies (e.g. glass combined with plastics) need to be developed whose properties and structural behaviour are suitable for structural purposes. Façade integration additionally requires adapted concepts and new solutions for fastening in the façade.
And tomorrow’s trends will definitely focus more and more on closed-loop processes in the flat glass industry to save energy and resources. The question – and challenge – on many of our minds is how we succeed in returning all of the existing glass to a new glass finishing process along a defined route. This requires not only clarifying questions of technical feasibility and quality but also creating new supply and warehousing relationships.
Compared to other construction materials glass can be a pioneer. I would like to discuss possible avenues with all visitors, so stop by and join the discussion!”
For more information on the “glass melting pot” session click here.
