Research Projects
Solving the Glass Industry’s Biggest Challenges
The Northwest Ohio Innovation Consortium leads glass manufacturing research that tackles shared industry challenges. Our seven active projects span sustainability, advanced manufacturing, and product innovation—all driven by collaboration between global glass manufacturers and leading research universities.
Pre-Competitive Collaboration
Partners work together on foundational challenges while maintaining competitive advantages in application.
Agile Innovation
We use test-and-learn methodology with small experiments, rapid evaluation, and strategic pivots to develop results faster and with more confidence.
Real-World Testing
Direct access to experimental furnaces and ten commercial glass production facilities enables practical validation at scale.
Glass Manufacturing Research Portfolio
Seven Active Projects Across Three Focus Areas
Sustainability
Our glass sustainability research, glass process optimization, and glass recycling technology initiatives address the most critical challenges facing the industry today.
Project 1
Alternative Fuels Research
Evaluating hydrogen and bio-fuels as alternatives to natural gas, with current focus on safety analysis and testing protocols for hydrogen use in forehearth heating.
Status: Phase 1–Testing protocols in development
Partners: CSA Lab, University of Toledo
Project 2
Furnace Electrification
Pioneering the electrification of downstream glass furnace components to run on renewable electric power instead of natural gas.
Status: Phase 1–Equipment selection and design
Partners: Libbey Glass, CelSian, DOE/GMIC
Project 3
Furnace Performance & Longevity
Developing improved refractory materials and monitoring systems to extend furnace life, reduce maintenance costs, and improve energy efficiency.
Status: Phase 1–Two monitoring projects launching
Partners: Libbey Glass, Owens Corning, University of Toledo
Advanced Manufacturing
Improving glass process optimization, quality, and consistency through artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and data analytics.
Project 1
AI Process Control
Using artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize furnace operations, predict equipment failures, and improve glass consistency through real-time data analysis.
Status: Phase 1–Multiple research streams active
Partners: University of Toledo, Bowling Green State University, Owens Corning
Project 2
Glass Recycling Technology
Improving cullet quality, developing national specifications for recycled glass, and expanding collection infrastructure to support circular economy goals.
Status: Active–GRIT program expanding to 21+ locations
Partners: Lucas County MRF, Recycle Services of Sylvania, The University of Toledo, and Bowling Green State University
Product Innovation
Creating lighter, stronger, and more sustainable glass products through surface treatments and advanced coatings.
Project 1
Glass Surface Treatment & Strengthening
Improving glass strength and durability through surface treatments, protective coatings, and edge strengthening—enabling lighter packaging and more durable solar panels.
Status: Phase 1–Two solar projects launched
Partners: First Solar, University of Toledo, Bowling Green State University
How To Get Involved
Join Our Research Community
For Industry Partners
Participate in ongoing projects, propose new research areas, and access breakthrough technologies. Membership includes participation in project teams, facility access, and shared research results.
For Researchers
We seek faculty and graduate student collaborators in materials science, engineering, AI/ML, sustainability, and data analytics. Research opportunities include funded projects and access to specialized equipment.