ABSTRACT
In 1961, two giant Belgian glass manufacturers operating globally merged to create “Glaverbel”. The post-war period was marked by new technological challenges. Therefore, in addition to the production of its “basic products”, Glaverbel concentrated its efforts on insulating glass units, thin-film glass, heated glass, enamelled glass, diffusing glass, solar-reflective glass, etc. It is in this context that Glaverbel launched the production of a new reflective glass. By applying a very thin layer of metal or metal oxide to one side of the glass wall, the glass reflects infrared rays. It is this technique which Glaverbel used for its “Stopray” brand. Many buildings with Stopray lightweight façades were constructed in Brussels in the years 1950–2000. This article will present the origins of Stopray glass, its inclusion in the post-war Brussels architectural context, and will focus on its use in various buildings, as well as current restoration issues.
