In a significant development for the glass and automotive industries, global materials manufacturer Mativ and smart window technology specialist Miru have announced a joint development agreement to commercialise a new lamination interlayer for electrochromic windows, also known as eWindows. The partnership aims to simplify the production process, lower costs, and accelerate the adoption of smart window technology for both the transportation and construction sectors.
Mativ, known for its Argotec brand of engineered polymer films, will work closely with Miru to integrate its advanced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) interlayer into eWindow production. The collaboration is expected to enhance the energy efficiency and comfort provided by dynamic window technology, which allows glass to adjust its tint based on environmental conditions or user preferences.
A Step Forward for the Glass Industry
Dr. Curtis Berlinguette, CEO of Miru, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “Partnering with Mativ, a company that shares our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability, is a big step forward for the glass industry. Together, we will leverage our expertise and resources to develop an advanced eWindow technology that will offer breakthroughs in energy efficiency and comfort for the transportation and building sectors.”
The integration of Mativ’s Argotec TPU interlayer will streamline the manufacturing of electrochromic windows, making them more accessible to glass fabricators and automakers globally. By reducing energy consumption and lowering production costs, this new lamination layer is expected to drive the widespread adoption of smart windows, which have the potential to revolutionise vehicle climate control and building energy efficiency.
Driving Sustainability and Innovation
Julie Schertell, President and CEO of Mativ, said the partnership aligns with their commitment to sustainability. “Powered by advanced Argotec TPU interlayer extrusions—an innovation born from Mativ’s materials expertise—this collaboration will accelerate the global adoption of dynamic eWindow technology. By utilising Mativ’s Argotec solution, manufacturers worldwide can reduce energy consumption and lower their carbon footprint, driving meaningful environmental impact.”
Smart windows are particularly beneficial for vehicles, where they provide on-demand tinting controls, helping regulate internal temperature and enhancing driver comfort. Miru’s eWindow technology is designed to meet consumer and regulatory demands for curved, neutral-colour, low-haze, and energy-efficient glass. By dynamically adjusting tint levels, eWindows improve solar energy performance, reducing the need for air conditioning and heating, and extending the range of electric vehicles (EVs).
In residential and commercial applications, eWindows offer similar benefits by significantly improving building energy efficiency. Studies suggest that eWindows can reduce energy usage by up to 40% compared to conventional low-emissivity windows, depending on the local climate. The TPU film used in this technology provides durability, flexibility, and clarity, making it ideal for a variety of glass lamination and glazing applications.
Showcasing the Future of Smart Windows
Mativ and Miru’s collaboration will be showcased at the International Glasstec trade show in Germany this October. A sample eWindow, featuring Mativ’s Argotec TPU interlayer, will be on display at the Mativ booth, where visitors will have the opportunity to see the technology in action.
The partnership between Mativ and Miru marks a significant step in the evolution of smart window technology, offering both industries and consumers an innovative solution for energy efficiency and sustainability. With global demand for more environmentally friendly building and transportation solutions on the rise, this collaboration is expected to have a lasting impact on how glass is used in modern infrastructure.
