Known, that insulating glass helps to save energy, but scientists from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have perfected the system. Instead of, to leave an air gap between two glass panels, the researchers placed a heat-absorbing and light-blocking liquid there.
When heated, this window becomes opaque. How suitable the system is for living quarters is not clear
Experimental “smart window” described in the magazine Joule, consists of two ordinary glass panes, the space between which is filled with a solution of a patented hydrogel, water and a stabilizing compound.
When sunlight hits a liquid-filled window, the water begins to absorb heat, preventing it from entering the room. The hydrogel causes the liquid to become opaque in sunlight, further reducing heat transfer. As a result, less energy is required to cool the room. When the sun goes down, the window becomes transparent again and “releases” heat.
As an added bonus, the researchers said the smart window absorbs street noise 15 percent more efficiently than traditional double-glazed windows.
Nanyang Technological University
“Before (chilled)” and “After (heated)”
Window tests were carried out in hot weather in Singapore and Guangzhou. The researchers noted that the smart window reduces energy consumption in office spaces by up to 45 percent, and also generates harmlessly heat after all workers have gone home.
Now scientists are looking for sponsors in order to launch smart windows into production.
– .
