In a game-changing leap for the global glass industry, GlassKote FGI (GK) has confirmed funding exceeding AUD 1.2 billion to build two of the most advanced low-iron float glass plants in the world — the first commencing in Queensland, Australia in early 2026, with the second in the United Arab Emirates to follow in the ensuing months.
Project One — 700 tonnes per day low-iron float glass + 400 tonnes per day WtE mega-plant in Queensland, Australia
Launching in early 2026, GK’s Queensland project will feature:
- 700 tonnes per day of low-iron glass for architectural, solar and specialty applications.
- 400 tonnes per day Waste-to-Energy facility using proprietary Cyrion technology to generate green hydrogen and renewable electricity with zero emissions.
- Silicon nanotube integration and DNA AI ‘Living Glass’ technology — enabling self-healing, seismic-resilient, and energy-optimising glass products.
- Integrated solar glass manufacturing for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and smart glazing.
- Advanced coating and value-add lines for laminated, toughened, ballistic, Low-E, and solar-control glass.
This facility will close Australia’s glass supply gap, the year following the Queensland mega-plant launch, GK will commence construction of a second 700 tonnes per day standard float glass plant in Australia.
Project Two — 1,000 tonnes per day low-iron float glass super-plant in the UAE
The UAE facility launching mid 2026 will be the largest and most technologically advanced of its kind in the MENA region, delivering:
- 1,000 tonnes per day of premium low-iron float glass for architectural, renewable energy, and specialty markets.
- Silicon nanotube integration and DNA AI ‘Living Glass’ technology — enabling self-healing, seismic-resilient and energy-optimising glass products.
- Integrated solar glass manufacturing for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and smart glazing.
- Advanced coating and value-add lines for laminated, toughened, ballistic, Low-E, solar-control glass and over-sized glass panels.
Groundbreaking refractory innovation
In a parallel development, SDH Australia and Cyrion Technologies have
introduced a world-first refractory material engineered to last the full
operational life of a float glass plant. This breakthrough eliminates the need for
costly shutdowns and tank rebuilds — a game-changing advancement that
transforms plant economics, uptime and environmental performance.