Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and SentryGlas Plus (SGP) are two popular interlayer materials for laminated glass. Both materials have their own unique properties and advantages, and understanding the differences between them can help architects, builders, and designers make informed decisions about which material is best suited for a specific application.

Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) is a thermoplastic material that is sandwiched between two layers of glass, creating a strong bond that holds the glass layers together in case of breakage. PVB is known for its ability to absorb impact energy, making it an effective safety feature in laminated glass. It also provides UV resistance, which helps to protect the interior of a building from fading due to sunlight.

SentryGlas Plus, on the other hand, is an interlayer material made of a polyvinyl nitrate (PVN) thermoplastic. SGP offers increased strength and stiffness compared to PVB, making it ideal for applications that require high levels of impact resistance and wind load resistance. Additionally, SGP is also known for its excellent weatherability, making it suitable for use in exterior applications.

When it comes to architectural design, PVB is commonly used in interior applications, such as skylights, balustrades, and partitions. SGP, on the other hand, is often used in exterior applications, such as curtain walls, canopies, and hurricane-resistant glazing.

Another important difference between PVB and SGP is that PVB is opaque, which means that it can’t be used in applications where transparency is desired. SGP, on the other hand, is transparent, which makes it a good choice for applications where visibility is important.

In conclusion, both PVB and SGP are excellent interlayer materials that offer different levels of strength, stiffness, and weatherability. PVB is UV resistant and is commonly used in interior applications, while SGP offers increased strength and stiffness, with excellent weatherability, making it ideal for exterior applications. By understanding the differences between PVB and SGP, architects, builders, and designers can make informed decisions about which material is best suited for a specific application.