glasstec 2026: Innovations push the boundaries of what is possible

Under the title “Beyond Transparency”, glass technology live explores new possibilities for glass as a material in architecture and building envelopes.

Düsseldorf, 22 September 2026 – For many years, it has been one of the particular highlights of glasstec: glass technology live (gtl) in Hall 11. When the international glass industry comes together in Düsseldorf from 20 to 23 October, gtl will provide insights into developments currently being advanced by research and industry – and demonstrate the impetus they can provide for future architectural and construction projects.

The role of glass extends far beyond transparency and design. In modern building envelopes, glass is increasingly taking on structural and functional tasks, influencing daylight, indoor climate and energy performance, while at the same time gaining importance as a reusable building component. glass technology live demonstrates how research and development continue to expand the material’s technical and structural possibilities. The spectrum ranges from new construction principles and technological processes to functional glass and façade solutions, as well as reuse and circular construction.

A foretaste of what is to come is provided by “Réflexions”, created by Atelier Emmanuel Barrois in collaboration with Bollinger+Grohmann. The sculptural structure made of prismatic glass elements travels in changing configurations and will now make a stop at glasstec in Düsseldorf. The exhibit combines exceptional design with sophisticated engineering while exploring the potential of reused glass for architecture and art. And this is just one example of what visitors can expect at gtl 2026.

“For me, glass technology live is one of the places at glasstec where the close connection between research and industrial practice becomes particularly tangible. Here, our visitors do not just see ideas or concepts, but real exhibits and prototypes, and they can talk directly to the people working on these developments,” says Daniel Feische, Director glasstec, Messe Düsseldorf.

Visitors wishing to take a closer look can explore glass technology live on guided tours in German and English. Experts will present selected exhibits, explain the ideas behind them and provide opportunities for direct professional exchange.

gtl in Hall 11 is one of the highlights of glasstec 2026, taking place in Düsseldorf from 20 to 23 October. Visitors can find information on the Guided Tours and glass technology live at glasstec.de.

glasstec 2026 will take place from 20 to 23 October 2026 at Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre.

glasstec is the world-leading trade fair for glass production, finishing and products. Every two years it maps the entire value chain of the glass sector – from glass machinery construction and glass production to the glazier trade. From 20 to 23 October 2026, it will bring together decision-makers, market leaders and experts from the entire glass industry at Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre.

A programme of side events with an international focus links science with practice and addresses the industry’s key issues. The focus here is on the Hot Topics: Circularity, AI & Digital Technologies and Decarbonisation. These topics of tomorrow are discussed in conferences, forums and expert events where leading research, science and industry representatives share their approaches.