Glass in building – Laminated glass and laminated safety glass – Determination of interlayer viscoelastic properties – EN 16613:2025

EN 16613:2025 is a European standard that focuses on laminated glass and laminated safety glass, specifically addressing the determination of interlayer viscoelastic properties. This standard is developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and is essential for ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of laminated glass products used in various applications, particularly in construction and architecture.

Scope of EN 16613:2025

The scope of EN 16613:2025 encompasses several critical aspects related to laminated glass, including:

1. Definition of Laminated Glass: The standard provides a clear definition of laminated glass and laminated safety glass, which are composed of two or more layers of glass bonded together with an interlayer material. This construction enhances safety, sound insulation, and UV protection.
2. Interlayer Properties: A significant focus of EN 16613:2025 is on the viscoelastic properties of the interlayer materials used in laminated glass. These properties are crucial for determining how the glass behaves under stress, temperature changes, and other environmental factors.
3. Testing Methods: The standard outlines specific testing methods for evaluating the viscoelastic properties of interlayer materials. These tests are essential for ensuring that the laminated glass meets the required performance criteria for safety and durability.
4. Performance Criteria: EN 16613:2025 specifies performance criteria that laminated glass products must meet to ensure they are suitable for use in construction. This includes resistance to impact, thermal stress, and other factors that can affect the integrity of the glass.
5. Quality Assurance: The standard emphasizes the importance of quality assurance processes in the manufacturing of laminated glass. This includes guidelines for production control, inspection, and testing to ensure consistent product quality.

Content of EN 16613:2025

The content of EN 16613:2025 includes several sections that detail the requirements and guidelines mentioned above. Key components of the standard include:

• Definitions and Terminology: Clear definitions of terms related to laminated glass and interlayer properties, ensuring a common understanding among manufacturers, architects, and regulators.
• Testing Procedures: Detailed procedures for testing the viscoelastic properties of interlayer materials, including equipment specifications and testing conditions.
• Performance Specifications: Specific performance metrics that laminated glass products must achieve, including impact resistance, thermal stability, and durability under various environmental conditions.
• Documentation Requirements: Guidelines for the documentation of testing results, quality assurance processes, and compliance with the standard.

Countries Using EN 16613:2025

EN 16613:2025 is primarily applicable in European Union countries, as it is part of the EU’s efforts to standardize construction products and ensure safety and quality in building materials. Countries that are likely to adopt or reference this standard include:

1. Germany: As a leader in construction and building materials standards, Germany is expected to implement EN 16613:2025 widely to enhance the safety and performance of laminated glass products.
2. France: France has a robust regulatory framework for construction materials, and the adoption of this standard will help maintain high standards in laminated glass products used in various applications.
3. Italy: Italy’s construction industry will benefit from the guidelines provided in EN 16613:2025, particularly in terms of improving the safety and performance of laminated glass in architectural designs.
4. Spain: Spain has been investing in its construction sector, and the adoption of this standard will help improve the quality and safety of laminated glass products used in buildings.
5. Scandinavian Countries: Countries like Sweden and Norway, known for their stringent safety regulations in construction, are also expected to utilize EN 16613:2025 to enhance their laminated glass standards.

Conclusion

EN 16613:2025 represents a significant advancement in the standardization of laminated glass and laminated safety glass. Its comprehensive scope, which includes definitions, testing methods, performance criteria, and quality assurance requirements, is essential for ensuring that laminated glass products are safe, reliable, and of high quality. As the construction industry continues to evolve, adherence to this standard will be crucial for manufacturers, architects, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with safety regulations and enhance the overall quality of building materials. By implementing EN 16613:2025, stakeholders can significantly improve safety and performance in the use of laminated glass in construction and architectural applications.