Zayed International Airport (Terminal A)
Zayed International Airport (Terminal A)
Elevating aviation: Solar control glass helps redefine terminal glazing
United Arab EmiratesZayed International Airport (Terminal A) stands as a new civic landmark, embodying the grandeur of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates and leaving a lasting impression on travelers. Designed to handle up to 45 million passengers annually, with the capability to process 11,000 travelers per hour and manage 79 aircraft simultaneously, its architectural prowess meets the demands of the capital’s rapid expansion.
Navigating complex challenges
The design vision for Terminal A prioritized an exceptional customer experience and traveler comfort. The project team aimed to uphold rigorous airport design standards, which included a focus on energy efficiency, acoustics, aesthetic cohesiveness and safety. The strategic integration of glass emerged as a pivotal element with plans for four glass-clad piers forming a gently curved X-shape design, garden façades and a 300-meter-wide front entry façade that included the following parts:
- Processor wall located between the Departures level and the roof
- Arrivals wall
- Curved corners
- North and South Gable walls
- An internal Mezzanine wall that continues below the Departures level
Overview of the front façade components between two of the pier arms. (Credit: Arup)
The Terminal A project sets out to establish a safe and comfortable environment under all weather conditions, aligning with stringent benchmarks in thermal efficiency and energy performance. In the arid desert setting, providing ample daylight while shielding travelers from glare and overheating required innovative solutions, steering clear of external shading devices prone to sand accumulation. Central to this endeavor were design elements such as the undulating, overhanging roof and the inclined façade of the Processor wall, intended to reduce direct sunlight exposure. To realize this vision effectively, the project demanded advanced glass solutions. A high-performance neutral glass coating was a prerequisite to help minimize solar heat gain, optimize daylight and mitigate glare. These requirements underscored the critical role played by the façade’s overall performance in shaping the airport’s functionality and comfort.
| Performance criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Visible Light Transmission |
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| Solar Heat Gain Coefficient |
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| U-value |
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| Acoustics |
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The design plan excluded the use of highly reflective coatings. To prevent glare that would be uncomfortable for occupants, the project team decided to apply a graduated frit pattern on the glass, strategically increasing shading as it rises on the façade. This approach avoided fritting at lower levels to preserve transparency, emphasizing the project’s commitment to balancing functionality with aesthetics while helping to provide optimal comfort for passengers.
Acoustical challenges posed by jet engine blasts during take-off added another degree of complexity, necessitating heat-treated, double laminated glass and careful consideration of the minimum glass thickness.
Maintaining uniform aesthetics and performance across flat, concave and convex glass mandated the use of a post-temperable glass product, with careful consideration given to the application of solar control coatings. The curved units posed a unique challenge, as the coating could potentially be damaged during the bending process if applied to the convex side in contact with the rollers. Ultimately, the coating was applied to surface #4.
The project necessitated that all glass originate from a single source – and one with the technical expertise to help reduce the risk of thermal shock and rollerwave distortion through the heat treatment process. Laminated inboard and outboard lites were specified to meet blast load resilience requirements.
- Areas of convex surface clad with curved glass are shown red
- Areas of convex surface clad with flat glass (i.e. facetted) are shown yellow
- Areas of flat surface clad with flat glass are shown green
- Areas of concave surface clad with flat panels are shown turquoise
- Areas of concave surface clad with curved glass are shown dark blue
The Guardian Glass solution
In answer to these challenges, Guardian Glass emerged as the preferred partner. With Guardian technical and commercial expertise, the project team found confidence in navigating the complexities of glass selection. Throughout every stage of the process, Guardian Glass remained a steadfast collaborator, beginning with providing samples to address the visual implications of using convex, flat and concave panels.
To fulfill the terminal’s glazing requirements, Guardian Glass answered the call with SunGuard™ SuperNeutral™ 40/23 HT coated glass. SN 40/23 HT is a high selectivity product that provides 40% visible light transmission, a low solar heat gain coefficient of 0.23 and a low U-value of 1.0 W/m2k on a standard insulating glass unit – benefits suited to the intense desert setting. With a neutral appearance, this coating met the project’s demanding requirements while enhancing the terminal’s luminous ambiance.
It can be particularly challenging for double-silver coatings to maintain integrity during bending. Even more challenging was the use of a cold bending process in which the coating remains in the furnace cooling area for four to six hours, risking corrosion during exposure. SN 40/23 HT was able to fully withstand the bending process even after being applied to the vulnerable surface #4. Across all bent glass applications, the double-silver coating checked all the boxes by bringing impressive shading performance without compromising visual transparency.
Guardian provided thorough technical support during the bending process, selecting Luoyang North Glass Technology Co., Ltd. (NorthGlass) to assist. A Guardian Glass field service engineer provided continued support during the bending processes. In addition, Guardian conducted a thermal breakage risk analysis to help reduce safety risks linked to eventual glass breakage.
Reaching high standards
Terminal A’s architectural magnificence is unmistakable, with its illuminated interior acting as a beacon on the horizon for travelers. The sculptural glass façade seamlessly integrates into the desert landscape. The thermal efficiency, energy performance and soothing aesthetics of the glass help foster energy efficiency and comfort within the structure. Flooded with natural light, the airy interior space invites travelers into a realm of comfort and sophistication. Terminal A’s commanding presence has garnered international acclaim, a testament to Abu Dhabi’s future-forward approach to travel.
Project Partners:
CLIENT: ADAC | ARCHITECT: KPF | CONSULTANT (Structures, MEP, Façades, Acoustics, Fire & Life Safety): Arup | GLASS PROCESSOR: Luoyang North Glass Technology Co., Ltd. (NorthGlass) | CLADDER: Jangho Curtain Wall Co., Ltd.
