Solarphire PV (photovoltaic) and Solarphire AR (anti-reflective) glasses were recognized as solar products of the year by readers of USGlass magazine.
Solarphire AR glass (left) and Solarphire PV glass are the two latest ultra-clear, low-iron products from PPG designed to make the conversion of solar light into power more efficient and affordable.
USGlass magazine subscribers in the retail and glazing contractor categories were polled to determine the most significant product introductions of 2009. Solarphire PV and Solarphire AR glasses won in the solar product category.
Introduced in March 2009, Solarphire PV glass has a proprietary formulation that delivers enhanced transmittance in the ultraviolet/visible portion of the solar spectrum, between 350 and 1100 nanometers, where crystalline photovoltaic cells are most responsive to the sun's energy. As a result, Solarphire PV glass transmits more solar energy than leading competitive products, which increases the energy efficiency of solar cells.
Solarphire AR glass, which debuted the following month, is formulated with a proprietary anti-reflective coating that facilitates the efficient conversion of solar light into energy. In 3.2-millimeter thicknesses, Solarphire AR glass yields a solar-weighted transmittance of more than 93 percent, making it one of the industry's most transmissive glass products.