Multi-gradient energy-saving smart windows with thermo-response and multimodal thermal energy storage

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Energy
• Building Technology

Background:

• Buildings consume substantial energy, with windows contributing significantly to energy loss.
• Current smart window technology focuses on single-functionality, lacking adaptability for diverse environmental demands.
• The need for multi-functional, adjustable smart windows for enhanced energy efficiency is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel thermo-responsive hydrogel for multi-gradient energy-saving smart windows.
• To integrate temperature-responsive optical properties with multimodal thermal energy storage capabilities.
• To create an adaptable smart window solution for improved building energy conservation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) for temperature-responsive optical properties.
• Incorporated water for sensible heat storage and κ-carrageenan for latent heat storage.
• Rapidly prepared a thermo-responsive hydrogel and multi-gradient energy-saving smart window (MGES smart window) without lengthy polymerization.

Main Results:

• The MGES smart window demonstrated excellent solar modulation (ΔTlum = 82.72%, ΔTsol = 68.65%).
• Achieved high specific heat absorption (c = 4.2 kJ kg⁻¹ K⁻¹) and phase transition heat (ΔH = 1.23 kJ kg⁻¹).
• Reduced surface and indoor temperatures by over 15 °C and 10.6 °C, respectively, compared to normal windows.

Conclusions:

• The developed MGES smart window offers superior energy-saving and conserving performance.
• This technology provides multi-aspect energy adjustment capabilities for buildings.
• Opens new avenues for developing energy-efficient green buildings through advanced smart window technology.