What types of interlayer materials are compatible with digital printed glass in laminated configurations?

In laminated configurations, digital printed glass requires interlayer materials that offer strong adhesion, optical clarity, and UV stability to preserve the integrity of the printed image and ensure the structural performance of the glass. The choice of interlayer directly affects the durability, safety, visual quality, and weather resistance of the final laminated product.

1. PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral)

• Usage: Most widely used interlayer in laminated safety glass.

• Advantages:

  • Excellent adhesion to printed inks and glass surfaces.

  • Offers good impact resistance and sound insulation.

  • Available in transparent, colored, or frosted versions to complement digital designs.

• Considerations:

  • Sensitive to moisture—proper edge sealing is required in exterior use.

  • Works well with ceramic frit or UV inks that are heat-cured or baked.

2. EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate)

• Usage: Popular in decorative glass applications and interior panels.

• Advantages:

  • Greater moisture resistance than PVB, suitable for humid or outdoor conditions.

  • Allows lamination of non-glass inserts (e.g., fabric, PET film, mesh) alongside digital prints.

  • Compatible with a wider range of ink technologies including UV and solvent-based.

• Considerations:

  • Slightly less flexible than PVB.

  • Lower optical clarity compared to PVB in thick configurations.

3. SGP (SentryGlas® Interlayer)

• Usage: High-performance applications such as facades, balustrades, and structural glazing.

• Advantages:

  • Superior stiffness, strength, and durability under load.

  • High UV resistance—ideal for digital printed glass exposed to sunlight.

  • Maintains clarity and adhesion even after weathering and aging.

• Considerations:

  • More expensive than PVB or EVA.

  • Requires precise processing conditions and often used in commercial or architectural-grade projects.

4. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

• Usage: Specialized applications, particularly when flexibility and abrasion resistance are desired.

• Advantages:

  • High elasticity and impact absorption.

  • Good for curved laminated digital glass.

• Considerations:

  • Less commonly used due to cost and niche processing requirements.

  • May yellow slightly over time without proper UV inhibitors.

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