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XIR GLASS vs GATGLASS® IR

XIR (eXtreme InfraRed) glass is a traditional glazing solution that utilizes a spectrally selective interlayer—typically a multi-layer PET film coated with sputtered noble metals such as silver. This film is laminated between two sheets of glass, providing high infrared (IR) heat rejection while maintaining high visible light transmission (VLT). XIR glass is widely used in applications requiring both solar control and optical clarity.

GATGLASS® IR is an advanced infrared-blocking material that offers all the core benefits of standard GATGLASS®—including exceptional optical clarity, glass-like surface hardness, ease of fabrication, and extreme impact resistance—while also delivering IR performance comparable to XIR glass. It effectively blocks infrared heat and maintains high VLT, but without the common drawbacks associated with laminated glass products.

A key advantage of GATGLASS® IR is that its IR-blocking functionality is integrated directly into the sheet’s base chemistry. Unlike XIR glass, which relies on a laminated film that can be susceptible to delamination or moisture ingress over time, GATGLASS® IR is a monolithic structure that cannot delaminate or degrade due to environmental exposure—ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

The chart below is a side by side comparison of the 2 products:

Category XIR Glass GATGLASS® IR
Core Composition Laminated glass with spectrally selective PET film (metal-coated) Optical Polycarbonate with IR-absorbing chemistry and glass surface coating
IR Blocking Capability Blocks up to 99% IR radiation Blocks up to 99% IR radiation
Visible Light transmission High VLT up uo 70-75% High VLT up uo 70-75%
UV Protection Blocks >99% UV rays Blocks >99% UV rays
Optical Clarity Good (laminated safety glass) Excellent- No lamination
Scratch Resistance Excellent due to exterior glass surfaces Excellent due to glass equivalent surface coating
Acoustic Insulation High (due to lamination) High
Impact Resistance Poor Excellent (up to 250x stronger than glass)
Weight Heavy Lightweight
Durability / Breakage Rigid and Breakable Virtually Unbreakable
Fabricatiuon Flecibility Must be made to size Easy to cut, shape and install, on or off site
Cost High (due to silver-based film and lamination) Cost effective - Excellent ROI

Summary: Benefits of GATGLASS® IR

GATGLASS® IR combines industry-leading durability with high-performance infrared-blocking capabilities. Key benefits include:

Exceptional Infrared Heat Rejection – Comparable to XIR glass, GATGLASS® IR effectively blocks IR radiation while maintaining high visible light transmission (VLT).
Glass-Equivalent Surface Hardness – Provides superior scratch resistance and long-term surface durability.
Virtually Unbreakable – Offers outstanding impact resistance, far surpassing traditional glass in strength and safety.
No Delamination Risk – Unlike laminated IR glass, GATGLASS® IR’s IR-blocking technology is embedded into the material itself, eliminating failure due to moisture ingress or film separation.
Lightweight and Easy to Fabricate – Can be cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools, making it ideal for both flat and complex geometries.
Weather and UV Resistant – Engineered for long-term outdoor exposure without yellowing, warping, or performance degradation.
Lower Installation and Lifecycle Costs – Reduced breakage risk and simplified handling lead to savings across the product’s lifespan.

GATGLASS® IR delivers the solar control benefits of advanced glazing systems with the strength, flexibility, and reliability of next-generation polymer technology.

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