Glass Block System
Glass blocks (also known as glass bricks) are hollow or solid translucent masonry units manufactured from pressed and fused soda-lime glass, used to construct non-loadbearing or semi-structural walls, partitions, and infill panels that admit natural daylight while providing privacy, thermal insulation, and sound attenuation. Standard hollow glass blocks consist of two pressed half-shells fused together at high temperature (~800 degC), creating an enclosed air cavity that provides insulating properties. Standard block sizes are 190x190x80mm and 240x240x80mm, with larger formats also available. Glass blocks are laid in mortar or proprietary channel systems with reinforcement, similar to conventional masonry. In Australian construction, glass blocks are primarily used for commercial and residential feature walls, bathroom partitions, stairwell enclosures, and facade elements where light transmission with privacy is required. Fire-rated glass block systems are available achieving 45, 60, or 90-minute FRL ratings when installed with compliant framing and mortar systems.
- Interior partition walls
- Bathroom and wet area walls
- Facade feature panels
- Stairwell and corridor daylighting
- Fire-rated assemblies
Glass blocks were first patented in 1886 by Gustave Falconnier in Switzerland. The modern hollow glass block was developed in 1929 by Herm. Luxfer Prismen in Germany and popularised in the 1930s-40s for industrial and commercial buildings. Pittsburgh Corning Corporation (USA) became the dominant manufacturer from 1937 with their PC Glass Block brand. The material became an iconic architectural element of Art Deco and Modernist design, used by architects including Pierre Chareau (Maison de Verre, 1932) and Le Corbusier. A major design revival occurred in the 1980s-90s with postmodern architecture, making glass blocks ubiquitous in commercial and residential projects. After a period of reduced popularity in the 2000s, glass blocks are experiencing renewed interest in contemporary architecture for their unique light qualities and retro-modern aesthetic. Today, Seves Glassblock (Italy, formerly Vetroarredo) is the world's largest manufacturer, producing a wide range of clear, coloured, patterned, and energy-saving glass blocks. Recent innovations include aerogel-filled glass bricks with dramatically improved insulation (U-value 0.17-0.22 W/m2K) developed by researchers at ETH Zurich.
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.