Reusing Insulating Glass Units: The Role of Argon Testing

The glass industry is evolving to align with sustainable practices, and insulating glass units (IGUs) are central to this shift. A study called in situ detection of product age and argon concentration as measure of the re-use potential of insulating glass units in buildings published in Glass Structures & Engineering highlighted how measuring product age and argon concentration can determine the reuse potential of IGUs. This innovation is a critical step toward reducing environmental impact by promoting high-level circular use of glass materials. Sparklike is happy to be partnering in this study by providing the argon testing equipment. 

The Challenge: Sustainability in the Glass Industry

IGUs are essential for energy-efficient buildings, reducing thermal transmittance and improving insulation. However, their production generates significant greenhouse gas emissions and depletes natural resources. Recycling and reusing IGUs can mitigate these effects, but it requires precise assessment of their condition and performance, especially for re-use strategies. Enter Sparklike Laser Portable™, a solution for non-invasive argon testing for quality assessment.

The Role of Argon Concentration in Circular Use

Argon gas fills contribute to improved insulation of IGUs by lowering thermal conductivity. Over time, argon levels can decrease, impacting energy efficiency and potentially signaling issues with seal integrity. Measuring argon concentration provides insight into the IGU's remaining lifespan and suitability for reuse, whether as a complete unit, reprocessed float glass, or glass cullets.

Sparklike Laser Portable: Enabling IGU Reuse with Non-Invasive Argon Measurement

The Sparklike Laser Portable employs tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) to non-invasively measure argon and krypton levels in IGUs. Unlike traditional methods requiring destructive sampling or limited by environmental conditions, this device offers reliable in situ measurements, even on installed IGUs in buildings. Read our Laser User Guide to learn about how to measure correctly with Sparklike Laser devices. https://sparklike.com/en/fill-in-the-form-to-receive-the-guide-for-sparklikelaser-users

Key advantages of Sparklike Laser Portable include:

• Non-Destructive Testing: Assess IGUs without compromising their structural integrity.
• Field Adaptability: Measure gas concentrations directly on-site, avoiding logistical challenges.
• Precision and Repeatability: Achieve ±2% accuracy in gas concentration measurements under standard conditions.

Integrating Sparklike into Reuse Practices

The study proposed a screening method for determining IGU reuse potential based on:

• Product Age: IGUs under 15 years are prime candidates for reuse, aligning with EN 1279-3 standards for thermal performance.
• Gas Concentration: Argon levels above 80% indicate a well-functioning unit with minimal U-value degradation, suitable for reuse or refurbishment.

Using Sparklike devices as part of this assessment ensures accuracy and consistency, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions about IGU sustainability.

Real-World Applications

The study demonstrated the Sparklike Laser Portable’s effectiveness in assessing IGUs across various settings. For example:

• Identifying IGUs suitable for direct reuse or refurbishment.
• Pinpointing units with sealant issues or advanced argon depletion.
• Supporting circular construction practices by enabling pre-demolition screening.

Conclusion: A Vision for a Circular Glass Industry

Sparklike technology represents an advancement for sustainability in the glass industry. By facilitating accurate, non-invasive assessments of IGUs, these devices unlock new possibilities for reuse, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. As the industry embraces circularity, tools like Sparklike Laser Portable will be indispensable in shaping a greener future.

For more information on Sparklike contact Sales 

09.04.2025, Sparklike