Opel Astra Selects BASF's PU Glass Encapsulation Technology to Develop Panoramic Windshield

This windshield is quite something. Extending from the hood to the B-pillar, it measures a remarkable 1.5 meters which amounts to more than a third of the vehicle's total length. To give such a large surface sufficient strength, Opel's engineers had to pull out all the development stops a total of eleven patents are now pending. The outcome is nothing less than remarkable. According to the manufacturer, the Panorama GTC is just as strong as the three-door vehicle with a steel roof. One reason for so much light and space is light-stable COLO-FAST® systems from BASF Polyurethanes.

Panorama windscreens of this size are simple to realize with WST technology:

Driving gains a fascinating new dimension with light-stable COLO-FAST systems from BASF Polyurethanes. For decades in applications around the world, they have proven effective as a glass encapsulation material and are in use with almost all leading manufacturers of glass panes and modules. With COLO-FAST WST (Window Spray Technology), BASF now also has an innovative system for pressureless application to glass in an open mold. This flush glazing technology is only possible with polyurethane. The result is glass and panorama roofs with impressively flush seals and glass panes. Bonded or extruded profiles, on the other hand, have considerable design drawbacks and are more susceptible to dirt. WST technology has much more going for it, such as greater design freedom, a reaction time of less than 45 seconds, reduced reworking and ultimately also lower investment costs.

Flush surfaces are the goal of COLO-FAST, WST technology and this not only applies to the automotive industry:

After taking over window encapsulation business from Recticel in 2009, BASF promptly initiated the development of a COLO-FAST® system series in line with the latest requirements of REACH. These systems have been undergoing successful launch in Europe and Asia since the end of 2010.

In addition to the automotive industry, product managers at BASF have also been investigating other growth markets for COLO-FAST WST technology, including the solar industry. The possibility of producing integrated flush photovoltaic panels and solar collectors with it improves water management of the roof, i.e. prevents moisture penetration, and counteracts dirt accumulation by improving rainwater run-off. What's more, COLO-FAST protects the edges of panels and collectors from breakage during shipment and installation.