Strategic partnership

Dynamic switchable glass company Merck and Guardian Glass have formed a strategic partnership in a bid to increase sales of Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal windows.

“This partnership will allow us to offer a complete range of solutions for structural facades,” Guus Boekhoudt, regional vice president and general manager of Guardian Glass for Europe, said.

“Eyrise complements our extensive range of high-performance coated glass products with innovative features such as dynamic solar control and variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Combined with our expertise in commercial projects, this strategic addition will allow us to further enable tailor-made solutions for our customers.”

Michael Heckmeier, departmental head at Merck, said: “The successful completion of the first Eyrise projects proves we have conquered the application of our liquid crystal technology in innovative architecture. Our goal now is to expand the reach of our Eyrise products to new markets and regions.

“With this strategic partnership with Guardian Glass, we will be able to leverage their know-how and network in the architecture industry as well as their expert salesforce to penetrate new market segments.”

Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal windows cut solar glare on demand without compromising on natural daylight. The privacy window variant also offers an instant switch from transparent to translucent.

Merck has completed the installation phase of two architectural lighthouse projects: one with crane manufacturer Kirow in Leipzig, Germany; and another project with consulting, controlling and planning company FC Group in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Ramp-up of Merck’s commercial manufacturing site in Veldhoven site was completed last year with the integration of a new lamination unit.