Why Most Blast Window Film Is Ineffective

Blast mitigation window products are one of the best ways to protect a building’s occupants in the event of a bomb blast. While the initial impact of an explosion is dangerous, data shows that the majority of injuries and fatalities during bomb explosions actually result from flying glass. Upon detonation, glass and debris from windows and doors become high-speed projectiles and pose a grave threat to people both inside and outside the targeted building.

Blast resistant film is one of the go-to options for window protection. Blast film utilizes a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is designed to prevent the glass from shattering upon a bomb blast. Unfortunately, more than 90% of the blast film that we come across was installed incorrectly. For blast film to be effective, it needs to be anchored to the frame. This helps hold the window pane to the wall. When the film is only applied to the surface of the glass, it helps keep the glass from shattering, but doesn’t prevent the entire pane from flying off the wall.

The below videos, produced by engineering firm Karagozian & Case, show how just how dangerous a blast film-treated window can be during an explosion if the film hasn’t been properly anchored to the window frame:

 
The below video shows a window correctly treated with  blast film withstanding a blast impact. In this video, the glass remains fixed to the frame and wall. It’s important to note, however, that even when installed properly, blast film needs to be reapplied ever 15 years. Read more about the pros and cons of blast film here.