Ahead of Glasstec 2026, we spoke with Benjamin Le Coz, Marketing Manager for KRYSTALFLEX® TPU. From the trends shaping the safety glazing market to the opportunities emerging from customer conversations, Benji shares his perspective on where KRYSTALFLEX® TPU interlayer film technology can help address evolving industry needs.
Why is now the right time for Huntsman to return to Glasstec?
Interest in and demand for safety glazing has never been stronger, driven by increasingly stringent safety standards and a growing focus on protecting people and property across commercial, industrial and public environments. Shows like Glasstec provide the opportunity to engage with customers and the wider industry – giving us the chance to talk about the latest trends and innovations. We’re excited to get to the show and meet existing customers and new prospects face-to-face.
Why has KRYSTALFLEX® TPU remained a trusted safety glazing technology for fifty years?
What makes KRYSTALFLEX® TPU special is the combination of properties it delivers in a single interlayer: e.g., optical clarity, strong adhesion and long-term durability. KRYSTALFLEX® TPU films are based on an aliphatic chemistry, which enables the sheets to bond well to glass, polycarbonate and acrylic. This makes it possible to create lightweight, complex or curved laminates that can have the strength to withstand impacts, blasts and ballistic threats. In doing so, the laminates remain clear and resistant to UV, moisture and temperature extremes. This versatility is a big part of the long-term appeal of KRYSTALFLEXTPU and its longevity in the market. Over fifty years, the technology has proven itself in demanding applications ranging from aircraft and high-speed rail to military vehicles, security glazing and architectural façades, while the portfolio has continued to evolve with different grades optimized for specific performance requirements.
What are the biggest trends you're seeing in the safety glazing market today?
We’re seeing a significant increase in demand for higher-performing safety and security glazing, driven by concerns around security, extreme weather events and the need for greater occupant protection – whether that’s in buildings used by large corporations, schools or different modes of transport. At the same time, customers want glazing systems that are lighter, thinner and more design-flexible without compromising optical clarity or impact performance. That’s increasing interest in hybrid glass / polycarbonate constructions and advanced interlayers that can deliver multiple benefits in a single laminate.
How are customer expectations evolving when it comes to TPU interlayer films?
Customer expectations haven’t fundamentally changed – safety remains paramount, and in demanding applications there is simply no substitute for premium, proven performance. What customers continue to expect from TPU interlayer films is exceptional reliability, optical clarity and durability, backed by consistent quality and the confidence that the material will be easy to process and perform when it matters most.
Looking ahead, where do you see the greatest opportunities for TPU interlayer technology?
We see the greatest opportunities for TPU interlayer technology in applications where safety requirements are becoming more demanding, and where weight, optical clarity and design flexibility are equally important. That includes transportation, but we are also seeing an uplift in enquiries relating to corporate and municipal buildings – from office blocks and manufacturing locations to schools and government sites.
What can visitors expect to see at the Huntsman stand at the event?
We’ll be showcasing our full portfolio of KRYSTALFLEX® TPU technologies at Glasstec. Many visitors will already be familiar with our products, which were among the first interlayer laminating solutions created for the safety glazing sector. Whether people are already aware of our products, or finding out about them for the first time, they will be able to have a look at the five different film types we offer; plus, we will have some really interesting real-life examples of KRYSTALFLEX® TPU in action – including a police helmet with visor. In addition, key members of our team will be on hand to answer any questions that stand visitors have, or to discuss project or application specifics.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s exhibition?
More than anything, we're looking forward to reconnecting with the industry. Tradeshows provide a unique opportunity to meet customers, partners and peers in one place, exchange ideas and gain valuable insights into the trends shaping our sector. There’s a real sense of excitement about being back, having meaningful conversations and building new relationships for the future.
Disclaimer
While all the information in this publication is to the best of our knowledge and belief accurate at the date of publication, NOTHING HEREIN IS TO BE CONSTRUCTED AS A WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR OTHERWISE. Huntsman warrants only that its products meet the agreed specifications. Typical properties, where stated, are to be considered as representative of current production and should not be treated as specifications. In all cases, it is the responsibility of the user to determine the applicability of such information and the suitability of any product for its own particular purpose. The sale of products referred to in this publication is subject to the general terms and conditions of sale of Huntsman International LLC or of its affiliated companies.
KRYSTALFLEX® is a registered trademark of Huntsman International LLC or an affiliate thereof in one or more, but not all, countries. © 2026. Huntsman Corporation or an affiliate thereof. All rights reserved.
