Scalable Photochromic Film for Solar Heat and Daylight Management.
Weihao Meng1,2, Augustinus J J Kragt3,4, Yingtao Gao1,2
1CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-inspired Materials and Interfaces Sciences, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|November 6, 2023
Summary
This study presents a new, scalable method for creating photochromic smart window films. These films efficiently control sunlight, enhancing building energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Sustainable Energy
Background:
- Photochromic smart windows offer adaptive sunlight control for building energy efficiency and daylight comfort.
- Fabricating high-performance photochromic films with high transparency and contrast remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a low-cost, scalable solution method for producing advanced photochromic films.
- To enhance indoor daylight comfort and building energy efficiency through novel smart window technology.
Main Methods:
- In situ growth of copper-doped tungsten trioxide nanoparticles within a polymethyl methacrylate matrix.
- Fabrication of large-scale photochromic films (30 × 350 cm²) using a solution-based approach.
Main Results:
- Achieved high luminous transmittance (Tlum = 91%) and low haze.
- Demonstrated significant modulation of visible light (ΔTlum = 73%) and solar heat (ΔTsol = 73%, ΔSHGC = 0.5).
- Simulations confirmed enhanced energy efficiency and daylight comfort with low-emissivity windows incorporating the film.
Conclusions:
- The developed photochromic film offers a viable strategy for energy-efficient buildings.
- This technology contributes to carbon neutrality goals and combating global climate change.
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