IIT Making Glass to Keep Buildings Cool in Summer and Warm in Winter
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, researchers at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Indore are working on a revolutionary solution to make buildings more eco-friendly and energy-efficient. They are developing a “smart glass” that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current, making it possible to keep buildings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The smart glass, made using a special porous organic polymer, is an electronic curtain glass that can change color and transparency to block sunlight and heat when needed or let it in when it’s cooler. This innovative technology has the potential to significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, making it a game-changer for the construction industry.
According to an official from IIT Indore, the smart glass can be controlled by applying a small electric current, allowing it to adjust its opacity and color to suit the ambient temperature and lighting conditions. This means that in the summer, the glass can block out the harsh sunlight and heat, keeping the building cool and comfortable. In the winter, it can allow sunlight to enter the building, warming it up and reducing the need for artificial heating.
The development of this smart glass is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science, and its applications are vast and varied. It can be used in buildings, vehicles, and even consumer products, such as windows, mirrors, and solar panels. The potential benefits of this technology are numerous, including reduced energy consumption, increased comfort, and improved indoor air quality.
One of the key advantages of the smart glass is its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions. Unlike traditional glass, which can become hot and uncomfortable in the summer or cold and drafty in the winter, the smart glass can adjust its properties to suit the ambient temperature and humidity. This means that building occupants can enjoy a consistent and comfortable indoor climate, regardless of the outside weather conditions.
The development of this smart glass is also expected to have a significant impact on the construction industry. With its ability to regulate light and heat, it can reduce the need for insulation, shading devices, and air conditioning, making buildings more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. It can also reduce the amount of energy required for heating and cooling, which can lead to significant cost savings for building owners and occupants.
The smart glass technology is still in the development stage, and further research is needed to refine its properties and improve its performance. However, the potential benefits of this technology are significant, and it has the potential to revolutionize the way we design and build buildings.
In conclusion, the development of smart glass by IIT Indore is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science, and its applications are vast and varied. With its ability to regulate light and heat, it can reduce energy consumption, increase comfort, and improve indoor air quality. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, this technology has the potential to play a significant role in reducing our carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable future.
News Source:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154
