Glass Block, various thicknesses (80mm, 100mm)
Glass blocks are architectural masonry units manufactured from pressed soda-lime glass, featuring hollow or solid construction. Standard dimensions are 190mm x 190mm with thicknesses of 80mm or 100mm. These units provide natural light diffusion whilst maintaining privacy, offering excellent fire resistance, acoustic insulation, and security. Commonly used in commercial, residential, and industrial applications throughout Australia.
- Privacy screens and partitions
- Bathroom and shower walls
- External façade features
- Natural light diffusion panels
- Fire-rated separations
- Pool fencing and barriers
- Commercial shopfronts
- Stairwell enclosures
- Basement windows
- Decorative architectural features
- Security glazing applications
- Industrial clerestory windows
Glass blocks were first developed in the early 1900s, with Gustave Falconnier patenting hollow glass bricks in 1886. Mass production began in the 1930s by companies like Pittsburgh Corning. In Australia, glass blocks gained popularity in the 1950s-60s for industrial and commercial buildings. Modern manufacturing uses the pressing technique developed by Luxfer Prism Company. Australian suppliers like Obeco (established 1989) have developed specific systems for local conditions including bushfire-rated assemblies post-2009 Victorian fires. Current products meet stringent Australian Standards with improved thermal performance and extensive fire ratings up to FRL -/120/120.
DISCLAIMER: This specification document is generated from the CLAD Materials Atlas Database. Information is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Values are typical and may vary by batch, manufacturer, and production run. Verify suitability for specific project applications independently.