Three Challenges of Low-E Glass
Traditional Low-E glass relies on metallic reflective layers to improve efficiency—but this often comes with trade-offs in daylight quality, glare, and long-term stability. EASYTO’s Smart™ RE Films solve these issues using rare-earth spectral control that reduces heat without harsh reflections.
Challenge 1: Lack of Spectral Selectivity
Problem: Broad reflection blocks both harmful and beneficial sunlight, and can interfere with telecom signals.
Smart™ RE Solution: Blocks ~99% UV and ~94% IR while keeping visible daylight clear and natural.
Challenge 2: Light Pollution vs Energy Efficiency
Problem: To increase insulation, Low-E glass often becomes darker and more reflective, causing glare and light pollution.
Smart™ RE Solution: Absorbs and dissipates solar energy instead of reflecting it—reducing heat without creating glare.
Challenge 3: Degrading Performance Over Time
Problem: Some metallic Low-E coatings can oxidise and lose effectiveness, shortening insulation lifespan.
Smart™ RE Solution: Rare-earth compounds (e.g., CeO₂, LaB₆) resist oxidation for long-term stable performance.
Comparison: Low-E vs Smart™ RE Films
| Aspect | Low-E Glass | Smart™ RE Films |
|---|---|---|
| Spectral Control | Blocks broad spectrum (incl. visible) | Selective UV/IR blocking, keeps daylight |
| Light & Glare | Highly reflective; glare & light pollution | Absorbs heat; clear appearance; low glare |
| Durability | Oxidation and ageing reduce performance | Stable rare-earth compounds resist oxidation |
| Telecom Interference | Metallic layer may block signals | Non-metallic; minimal interference |
Conclusion: Low-E glass improves insulation but can compromise natural light, exterior appearance, and longevity. Smart™ RE Films deliver selective protection, long lifespan, and real comfort for Australian buildings.
Further reading
Explore how rare-earth films compare to traditional Low-E and dive into the testing behind the results.