# Translucent Glass Bricks
These Unique Bricks Offer Reliable Insulation and Load-Bearing

By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2023-04-21 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glass-bricks
References: [news.europawire.eu](https://news.europawire.eu/empa-team-develops-translucent-glass-brick-with-aerogel-insulation-for-load-bearing-walls/eu-press-release/2023/04/21/11/19/21/115541/) & [empa.ch](https://www.empa.ch/web/s604/aerogel-glasbaustein)

A team of scientists and innovators from the Empa research collective over in Switzerland have developed high-tech glass bricks that are designed to be able to combine the twin benefits of being able to welcome ample sunlight into constructed spaces whilst also offering quality insulation and reliable ability to bear weight.

These bricks were constructed by packing the glass brick exteriors with silica aerogel granules that happen to be translucent and are connected using epoxy resin. This structure allows for the fully sealed brick to still be translucent and allow sunlight in whilst also offering privacy to those inside the building. What's more, these bricks also offer excellent insulation capabilities, the likes of which are typically not associated with glass bricks.

Image Credit: Empa