Laminated Glass Interlayer Types: PVB, EVA & SGP

What Is a Laminated Glass Interlayer?

A laminated glass interlayer is a thin layer of polymer placed between two or more pieces of glass. It acts like a strong adhesive that bonds the glass together while adding safety and performance.

When the glass breaks, the interlayer holds the fragments in place instead of letting them scatter. This reduces injury risk and keeps the structure intact. At the same time, it improves sound insulation, blocks UV rays, and enhances durability.

In simple terms, the interlayer is what turns ordinary glass into safety glass with added functionality.

Main Types of Laminated Glass Interlayers

PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral) – Standard Choice

PVB is the most commonly used interlayer in both construction and automotive glass. It offers a reliable balance of safety, performance, and cost.

It provides good impact resistance and helps reduce noise, making it ideal for everyday use. PVB also blocks most UV radiation, protecting interiors from fading.

However, it can be sensitive to moisture at exposed edges, so proper sealing is important.

Best for: windows, curtain walls, windshields

EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) – Decorative & Moisture Resistant

EVA is known for its strong bonding and excellent resistance to moisture. It performs well in humid environments where traditional interlayers may struggle.

It processes at lower temperatures and remains highly flexible, making it suitable for creative designs. EVA is often used to laminate decorative materials like fabrics, prints, or colored films.

Its main limitation is lower long-term UV stability compared to other options.

Best for: interior design, decorative glass, humid areas

SGP (Ionoplast Interlayer) – Structural Performance

SGP is a high-performance interlayer designed for strength and durability. It is much stronger and stiffer than PVB, allowing glass to carry higher loads with less deflection.

It also has excellent tear resistance and maintains integrity even after breakage. SGP performs very well in outdoor conditions, with strong resistance to weather and edge exposure.

The trade-off is a higher cost, but it delivers superior performance in demanding applications.

Best for: balustrades, canopies, structural glazing

Emerging Interlayer Types (Advanced Options)

New interlayer materials are expanding what laminated glass can do.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) offers high adhesion and flexibility, making it suitable for specialized uses. Resin-based systems (CIP) are used in custom or small-batch production where flexibility is needed.

Functional interlayers are also growing fast. These include smart glass films, LED-integrated layers, and other advanced technologies used in modern buildings.

Key Differences Between Interlayer Types

Choosing the right interlayer comes down to performance, environment, and budget. Here’s a quick, clear breakdown to help you compare the main options.

How to Choose the Right Interlayer

Choosing the right interlayer depends on your project needs, environment, and budget.

Choose PVB If:

PVB is a smart choice when you need cost-effective safety glass for everyday use. It works well in standard architectural glazing and offers good sound insulation, making it ideal for offices and residential spaces.

Choose EVA If:

EVA is better for decorative applications. If your design includes fabrics, colors, or embedded materials, EVA provides strong bonding and flexibility. It also performs well in humid environments and supports faster processing.

Choose SGP If:

SGP is the best option when strength matters most. Use it for structural glazing, exposed outdoor conditions, or safety-critical designs like frameless railings and canopies where high load resistance is required.