AGC Chemicals of Exton, PA and Tokyo-based Asahi Glass Co. both had a hand in the creation of the official glass-encased player benches at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The benches provided were an upgrade from the models AGC had made for the FIFA Confederations Cup that took place in Brazil in 2013. Comprised entirely of AGC products, these player benches, which were used for all 12 venues where the soccer matches occurred, are covered with a chemically-strengthened glass roof that was anti-reflective, scratch resistant, and impervious to severe weather conditions that would otherwise compromise the structural integrity of the benches.
The technology utilized in this project was originally intended for small electronic devices. The application of this technology to the benches proved that, despite being made for items like tablets and smartphones, there is a potential for the futuristic glass to be used for larger architectural projects.
President and CEO of Asahi Glass, Co., Ltd., Kazuhiko Ishimura, addressed the contribution to the sporting event, stating, “I am delighted that our glass bench roofs will support one of this year's greatest global sporting events, which will be enjoyed by people from every continent. This is a wonderful first step for us to show the world the evolution and potential of glass materials, and how they can change the future. By further developing our technologies we plan to support the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.”
The glass panels are supported by fiber-reinforced plastic frames that are coated with Lumiflon FEVE resin. The fluoropolymer is a hyper-durable resin that ensures long-term color and gloss retention and protects surfaces from coating degradation.
Photos courtesy of Business Wire