Low- iron (extra clear) glass is made with a float technique, but is characterized by a much lower iron oxides content than a regular clear glass. This composition allows for a higher light transmission and reduces the green tint. It can be manufactured even in large size and in a wide range of thickness and can under go treatments and techniques like any other float product-for example, it can be tempered, laminated, frosted and ground.
The characteristics of low-iron glass are as follows:
- extreme transparency
- high light transmission
- achromatic edges
- light transmission is higher than clear float glass, with heavy thicknesses in particular (low-iron glass increases light transmission by 3-4%, reaching 7-8% with thicknesses above 8 mm)
- enhanced glass aesthetics and brightness
- it allows for a perfect colour restitution when observed through the glass surface
- also available in 15 and 19 mm thickness
These features allow also for a greater natural internal lighting, which certainly explains why low-iron glass is architects’ favourite product.
With regard to its uses, low-iron glass is so versatile that it can be suited to an amazingly wide range of applications.
It can be manufactured even in large size and in a wide range of thicknesses and can under go treatments and techniques like any other float product – for example, it can be tempered, laminated, frosted and ground. In particular, it is used for:
- interior design (coverings, dividing walls, doors, shower boxes)
- pieces of furniture (tables, wardrobes, bookcases or showcases for design stores)
- shop windows (it enables to display and protect the items by respecting their chromatic features).
Low-iron glass is much appreciated when the glass edge is visible, as it erases the green effect of the float and guarantees a neat and transparent design.
