Smart window based on surface-active thermally responsive hydrogel - GELWIN

Project summary

Rationale/Needs to be addressed: An ideal type of smart window (SW) responds passively to the changing ambient temperature or light intensity, modulating solar energy flux through the windowpane, without requiring electrical energy input and expensive components. Thermally responsive polymers offer the potential to meet these requirements. Objectives: The development of SW based on thermally responsive hydrogel with stable performance, solar energy modulation of >70%, switching speed of ~1s and additional functionalities of switchable color through plasmon resonance and the use of novel photochromic nanoparticles. Potential applications: Energy-saving SWs for residential- and office buildings and for creating signs and logos that appear spontaneously in the warm state. Impact and potential benefits: SW technologies offer a great potential to improve energy efficiency of buildings, to reduce energy consumption and to increase occupant comfort.