Transparent Wood with Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystals for Next-Generation Smart Windows: Prospective for Energy...

Window components play a crucial role in managing heat transfer in buildings, but traditional passive windows often fail to adapt to varying environmental conditions, which impact occupant comfort. To overcome this limitation, this study presents the novel concept of PDLC integrated between two layers of transparent wood (PITW) glazings, showcasing their dual capability for dynamic light modulation and thermal insulation across multiple wood species and establishing their significant energy-saving and daylighting potential for adaptive building envelopes in diverse climatic zones. Also, this integration concept of PITW glazing enhances energy efficiency, thermal insulation, and the ability to regulate heat gain and loss. To validate these benefits, this study experimentally analyzes the solar and material characteristics of four different PITW glazings utilizing balsa, poplar, pine, and bamboo (designated as PITW₁, PITW₂, PITW₃, and PITW₄) when in both their operational and non-operational states. In addition to this, a thermal and cost-benefit assessment was conducted by using a theoretical model to evaluate two climatic zones in India, including the hot arid and hot humid regions. Notably, in both the off and on states, PITW₃ glazing showed significant air-conditioning cost savings of $9,011 and $7,190 in Vellore and New Delhi, respectively, with favorable payback periods and adequate daylight access compared with all other PITW glazings studied.