When it comes to modern architecture, glass is often seen as a symbol of openness, elegance, and light. Yet in high-performance buildings, safety is just as important as aesthetics. In the event of a fire, ordinary glass offers little protection, shattering within minutes and allowing flames and smoke to spread rapidly. This is where EI120 fire glass steps in delivering up to 120 minutes of integrity and insulation while maintaining the clarity and beauty that architects and designers demand.

What is EI120 Fire Glass?

The classification EI120 refers to fire-resistant glass that has been tested and certified to maintain:

• Integrity (E): Preventing flames and smoke from spreading to the safe side.
  
• Insulation (I): Limiting the temperature rise on the protected side to ensure safe evacuation and protection of occupants.

The “120” signifies that this protection lasts for 120 minutes (2 hours). This makes EI120 fire glass one of the highest levels of safety glazing available for interiors and facades.

How EI120 Fire Glass Works

EI120 fire glass is typically a multi-laminated system that includes layers of toughened glass and advanced intumescent interlayers. In the event of fire:

1. The glass maintains its integrity, preventing cracks or openings.
   
2. The intumescent interlayer expands, creating a thermal barrier.
   
3. Heat transfer is minimized, keeping the non-fire side cool for up to 120 minutes.
   

This unique construction ensures maximum protection without compromising visibility or natural light.

Benefits of EI120 Fire Glass

1. Life-Saving Safety

EI120 fire glass provides critical time for occupants to evacuate and for first responders to act, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities.

2. Compliance with Global Fire Standards

Many building codes across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia mandate EI-classified glass for stairwells, escape routes, and high-occupancy zones. EI120 glass ensures compliance with even the most stringent safety regulations.

3. Maintaining Design Freedom

Unlike bulky walls or shutters, EI120 fire glass allows architects to design transparent partitions, doors, and facades that are both safe and visually appealing. It strikes the perfect balance between safety and aesthetics.

4. Versatile Applications

EI120 fire glass is ideal for:

• Escape corridors and stairwells
  
• Fire doors and partition
  
• Atriums and skylights
  
• High-risk zones in commercial, hospitality, healthcare, and transport infrastructure
   

5. Invisible Strength

The beauty of EI120 glass lies in its invisibility. To the eye, it looks like standard glazing sleek, clear, and modern. Yet behind the scenes, it carries the hidden strength to resist fire for up to two hours.

FG Glass Fire Safety Solutions

At FG, we provide a wide range of EI-rated fire glass solutions that meet international safety standards. Our Fire Safety vertical includes:

• SCHOTT PYRAN® S – E120 fire-rated glass
  
• SCHOTT PYRAN® FUSION – EI20/EW120 fire-rated glass
  
• SCHOTT PYRAN® PLATINUM – E240 UL-rated fire-rated glass
  
• SCHOTT PYRAN® STAR – E240 UL-rated fire-rated glass
  
• SCHOTT PYRANOVA® – EI120 fire-rated glass
  
• SCHOTT PYRANOVA® FUSION – EI20/EW120 fire-rated glass
  
• FLAMEBUILD™ – Fire-rated glazed systems

Fire safety in modern architecture requires solutions that combine strength, compliance, and design freedom. EI120 fire glass provides invisible yet powerful protection, giving architects the ability to design open, transparent spaces without compromising on safety. With FG Glass’s portfolio of advanced fire-rated products, you can create interiors that are not only beautiful but also resilient in the face of fire.