EPiC database - Double glazing - toughened glass

This material is part of the free Environmental Performance in Construction (EPiC) Database. The EPiC Database contains embodied environmental flow coefficients for 250+ construction materials using a comprehensive hybrid life cycle inventory approach.

Double glazing - toughened glass is a glazing system that combines two sheets of toughened glass separated by a sealed gas-filled cavity. These systems are also commonly referred to as insulated glass units (IGU). An aluminium spacer is used to separate the glass panes, attached to the glass with an adhesive. The cavity is then filled with an inert gas. Argon, xenon and krypton are the most commonly used gases.

The double glazed system is typically used to improve the acoustic or thermal performance of a window. The thickness of each glass pane generally ranges from 3 to 10 mm and the gas-filled cavity typically ranges from 6 to 12 mm.

The same glass thickness is usually used for both panes, but in some circumstances the thickness may vary. Laminated or flat glass can also be used in place of toughened glass. Toughened glass is used where additional strength is required or there is increased risk of damage. Various coatings (such as low-e) can also be applied to the glass surfaces to improve its thermal, acoustic or privacy characteristics.