IIT Making Glass to Keep Buildings Cool in Summer & Warm in Winter
As the world struggles to combat the effects of climate change, innovation has become the key to finding sustainable solutions. In a breakthrough that could revolutionize the way we build, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Indore is developing a “smart glass” that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current. This cutting-edge technology has the potential to create eco-friendly buildings that stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The smart glass, made from a special porous organic polymer, can change color and transparency in response to electrical stimuli. This means it can block sunlight and heat when needed, or let it in when it’s cooler. According to officials, this innovative material has the potential to transform the way we design and construct buildings.
The smart glass is an electronic curtain glass that can be integrated into buildings to provide optimal insulation and energy efficiency. It can be programmed to adjust its opacity and reflectivity in response to changing environmental conditions, such as temperature and light. This means that buildings can be designed to stay cool in the summer by blocking out intense sunlight, and warm in the winter by allowing in natural heat.
The technology behind this smart glass is based on the properties of porous organic polymers, which are highly versatile and can be tailored to specific applications. These polymers are made up of a network of organic molecules that can be designed to have specific properties, such as conductivity, optical properties, and mechanical strength.
The development of this smart glass is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science. Traditionally, buildings have relied on mechanical systems, such as air conditioning and heating, to regulate temperature. However, these systems can be energy-intensive and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The smart glass provides a more sustainable solution by using electrical stimuli to control the amount of light and heat that enters a building.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. It could be used in commercial and residential buildings, as well as in vehicles and other enclosed spaces. It could also be used to create more energy-efficient windows and facades, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.
The development of this smart glass is a testament to the innovative spirit of India’s education system. IIT Indore is one of the top technical universities in the country, and its researchers are at the forefront of cutting-edge research in materials science and engineering.
In an interview, an official from IIT Indore said, “This smart glass has the potential to revolutionize the way we build and design buildings. It can help reduce energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create more sustainable and comfortable living spaces.”
The development of this smart glass is also a significant step towards creating a more sustainable future. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, innovative solutions like this smart glass are crucial to reducing our carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, the development of smart glass by IIT Indore is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science. This innovative material has the potential to transform the way we build and design buildings, providing optimal insulation and energy efficiency. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, innovations like this smart glass are crucial to creating a more sustainable future.
News Source:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154
