Field Comparison of the Retention Properties of Pre-Fractured Heat Strengthened Laminated Glass to Tempered Glass in Factory Door Seals

This current study was performed to investigate the performance difference between production tempered side glazing and modern heat-strengthened laminated glass when tested with a controlled one-quarter roll where the door-mounted rearview mirror was targeted to pre-fracture the glazing. Then push out and abuse impact demonstrations were conducted on the glazing. The results of the demonstration were observed and photographed. Only unmodified, commercial glazing was used in windows that were retained in a vehicle-mounted, framed driver’s door. The testing indicates that by using laminated glass, occupant retention can be realized, significantly lowering the potential for partial or full ejection and their associated heightened injury risk.