Increased functions of laminated glass with fibre optic sensor

The purpose of the pre-study was to investigate the possibilities of laminating fibre optics between two glass panes and explore which applications had the largest potential and benefits.

In the project, we suggested suitable fibres for lamination and ideas for connecting the fibres to transfer data from the laminated product. Lamination tests were performed, resulting in early-stage prototypes. These were evaluated to determine how the lamination process influenced the functionality of the fibre sensors.

A very important part was identifying the most suitable areas for the technique. 

• One possible application was using the window or facade to measure temperature and regulate the amount of sun protection needed. The fibres do not absorb very much sunlight and can measure the surrounding temperature better than many other materials. 
• Building with wood is increasing, and glass can be used to protect a wooden facade. Once the initial issues with laminating wood and glass are overcome, fibres could be included in the entire facade. 
• Loadbearing glass constructions are also increasing. In these, laminated fibres could be used to measure elongation and contribute to monitoring load variations.

The project group was broad and comprised traditional glass and fibre optic expertis at RISE, Linnaeus University, the Swedish Federation of Wood, GFAB, and an industrial laminating company.