Scalable Ionogel-Based Thermochromic Smart Windows: Enhanced Solar Regulation, Weatherability, and Processability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Hydrogel smart windows face challenges in weather resistance and mass production.
• Thermochromic ionogels are difficult to process into window films for industrial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a processable thermochromic ionogel ink for industrial-scale smart window production.
• To enhance weather resistance and thermomechanical stability in smart window materials.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a butyl acrylate (BA) and binary ionic liquids (ILs) based ionogel ink.
• Utilizing ultraviolet light curing for rapid processing, including 3D printing, coating, and roll-to-roll fabrication.
• Investigating the temperature-driven dynamic distribution of IL-rich microdomains for solar regulation.

Main Results:

• The ionogel ink is suitable for industrial processes like roll-to-roll curing and large-size fabrication.
• Achieved tunable low critical solution temperature (27-130 °C) for effective solar regulation.
• Demonstrated robust weather resistance, self-adhesiveness, and thermomechanical stability, preventing material degradation.

Conclusions:

• The developed ionogel ink overcomes limitations of traditional smart windows, enabling mass production.
• Validated significant energy-saving and emission-reduction potential through outdoor tests and building simulations.
• Presents a durable and energy-efficient platform for next-generation smart windows.