Noteworthy           NEW PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

NEW FILMS
New Polyester Films for Plastic
Hanita Coatings, a manufacturer of solar control and safety window films based in Kibbutz Hanita, Israel, recently launched a new range of polyester films specifically developed for installation on plastic glazing. Hanita’s new films are designed for use on polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and provide transparent solar control while retaining light and controlling heat build-up and glare.

The company says its Silver film for plastic glazing tackles the heat build up and glare that can make conservatories, atriums and enclosed pool areas unbearable. Additionally, its 4-mil Clear SR film is for interior applications and provides protection to help maintain the look of polycarbonate and acrylic and features a scratch-resistant coating that resists most graffiti spray, paint and pen. The film wipes clean with basic cleaning materials and can be removed and replaced, while adhesive residue rubs off without damaging the plastic. www.hanitacoatings.com

Etched Glass Alternatives
The 3M Co. in St. Paul, Minn., has expanded its Fasara Interior Design window films. New patterns include various renditions of decorative stripes and dots that the company says are designed to provide designers with distinctive and versatile options for interior glass panels. 

These films are made of thin, durable polyester with a decorative matte surface and provide solutions for decorative, privacy and architectural applications. One of its newest, Illumina film, offers an exotic look for privacy while allowing light to pass through into a room or hallway offering an alternative for etched glass design and installations. Fasara films can be removed from glass panels, and new patterns applied, creating a whole new image. www.3m.com

RESOURCES
Bayer Informs Consumers with Film CD
The newest innovations in polycarbonate films from Pittsburgh-based Bayer Films America, a division of Sheffield Plastics Inc., are detailed in a new voice-over CD. The CD offers information about MAKROFOL^® and BAYFOL^® film products, including suggested applications for each of the film varieties. The films are divided into five categories: graphic, light diffusing, weatherable, flame-retardant and specialty films. For each category, the film varieties are described according to grade, color, texture, thickness, application and distinguishing features. www.bayerfilms.com 

COMPETITIVE PRODUCTS
Light or Dark? Smart Film Offers Options
Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd. in Cupertino, Calif., announced that shipments of its wide-width suspended particle device (SPD)-Smart™ light-control film from its newest coating line have commenced. Innovative Glass has purchased and received rolls of the film and is now in production of EGLASS™ SPD-SmartGlass architectural products.

The SPD-Smart film electronically controls the amount of light, glare and heat that passes through glass products, via manual or automatic control. By controlling the voltage applied to the patented SPD film, the technology permits the user to control light, heat and glare and block UV without blocking the view. Its dark state permits less than one percent of visible light to pass through. SPD technology responds rapidly and uniformly over large surface areas consistently, regardless of panel size, according to the company. Film was delivered to Innovative Glass recently that measures more than one meter wide. The film also provides a wide range of light transmission. www.hitachi-chemical.com

WINDOW FILM
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