In modern architecture, curtain walls serve as both protective barriers and aesthetic features. Among the various materials used in curtain wall systems, tempered glass stands out as a mandatory choice — not just for appearance, but more importantly, for safety, strength, and durability.

Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, undergoes a special heat treatment process that increases its strength by four to five times compared to regular float glass. This added strength is crucial for curtain walls, which are often exposed to high wind loads, temperature variations, and impact risks. In high-rise buildings, where curtain walls span large areas, tempered glass ensures structural stability and minimizes the risk of breakage under pressure.

Safety is another critical reason for its use. If tempered glass breaks, it shatters into small, blunt fragments rather than sharp shards. This greatly reduces the risk of injury, making it ideal for public and high-traffic buildings where safety standards are strict.

Moreover, tempered glass is highly resistant to thermal stress, meaning it can withstand sudden temperature changes without cracking. This property is especially important for curtain walls, which face direct sunlight, rain, and wind on a daily basis.

From a design perspective, tempered glass offers flexibility — it can be laminated, coated, or combined with insulation layers to improve energy efficiency, sound insulation, and appearance.

In conclusion, tempered glass is not just a preferred material for curtain walls — it’s a requirement in many building codes around the world. Its combination of strength, safety, and performance makes it indispensable in modern architectural design.