Guardian Industries Corp has revealed plans for a new science and technology centre, which will consolidate the manufacturer's product design and engineering, research and development functions. It will also help to speed up the company's product and process innovation as technology worldwide advances rapidly and competition in the marketplace becomes more fierce. High performance glass coatings is one area which presents major growth opportunities in the flat glass industry. To link in with the launch on the new centre, Guardian is to increase its development of new glass coatings, opening up new possibilities and benefits for architectural glass customers. The coatings will provide many options for customers, from ultraviolet protection to heat retention to reflection.