Solar Control Window Films: Protecting Interiors Of Buildings And Vehicles
The primary function of solar control window films is protecting the interiors of vehicles and buildings from fatal IR and UV radiations. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), dyes & adhesives and metals such as stainless steel and aluminum are some of the raw materials used in the manufacturing of solar control window films.
Solar control window films control the amount of heat penetration through the windows, keeping the interiors cool. This reduces energy spent on cooling appliances such as air coolers and air-conditioners. These appliances emit harmful gases, polluting the environment. Stringent regulations regarding energy consumption have increased the demand for these films, particularly in commercial buildings. These films, which are available in various textures and patterns, can also be used to improve the aesthetic appeal of a building.
The market for these films is growing in accordance with the growing automotive and construction industries. Growing construction industry in the emerging Asia-Pacific region is the primary driver of the growth of the market. The market in this region is dominated by countries such as India and China, which are characterized by huge populations and increasing per capita incomes of the people. The growing automotive industry is also expected to increase the demand for the films here. Similarly, growing construction and infrastructure projects in the Middle East and Africa have further boosted the growth of the market. These regions have become popular tourist destinations for travelers across the globe. However, the European region, with some countries still under the influence of the economic slowdown between 2007 and 2009, is projected to witness a lackluster growth rate between 2016 and 2024.
The solar control window films market is highly fragmented with a number of small and large-scale players around the world. Some of the major manufacturers include Saint-Gobain SA (France), Eastman Chemical Company (U.S.), and 3M Company (U.S.). Development strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, collaborations, & agreements, new product developments, and expansions are adopted by these players to increase their product offerings and improve their geographic reach by entering new markets. An example of such a strategic development is the acquisition of Solar Gard Specialty Films by Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, a division of the Saint-Gobain (France), in August 2011. This acquisition further consolidated Compagnie de Saint Gobain’s position in the market for solar control window films.
The solar control window films market is dominated by vacuum coated films. These films block the maximum amount of UV rays from entering the room or vehicle and also reflect sun rays. The metal content in these films makes these films more effective in the reflection of sun rays, as compared to clear and dyed window films. However, experts believe that the emergence of solar control glass, a special type of glass that blocks IR and UV rays, may hamper the growth of this market. But solar control glass is more expensive than solar control film as the consumer needs to replace the window system completely to install the glass.
In-depth report on global solar control window film market by Grand View Research:
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/solar-control-window-film-market