IIT Making Glass to Keep Buildings Cool in Summer & Warm in Winter
As the world grapples with the pressing issue of climate change, researchers at IIT Indore are working on a revolutionary technology to make buildings more eco-friendly and energy-efficient. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) has developed a “smart glass” using a special porous organic polymer that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current. This innovative solution can change color and transparency, allowing it to block sunlight and heat when needed, or letting it in when it’s cooler.
The smart glass, also known as an electronic curtain glass, has the potential to transform the way we design and construct buildings. By regulating the amount of sunlight and heat that enters a building, it can reduce the need for air conditioning and heating, resulting in significant energy savings. Additionally, the smart glass can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a building by changing color to match the surrounding environment or to suit the user’s preferences.
The development of this smart glass is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science and architecture. Traditional glass is non-porous and does not allow for the regulation of light and heat. The new smart glass, on the other hand, is made of a porous organic polymer that can be manipulated to change its properties. This is achieved by applying a small electric current to the polymer, which causes the molecules to rearrange themselves and change the glass’s color and transparency.
The potential applications of this technology are vast and varied. It can be used in buildings, homes, and even vehicles to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality. The smart glass can also be integrated with other technologies, such as sensors and automation systems, to create a fully automated and sustainable building.
The IIT Indore team has been working on this project for several years, and their research has been published in several leading scientific journals. The team has also filed patents for the technology, and is currently working with industry partners to commercialize it.
The development of this smart glass is a testament to the innovative spirit of Indian researchers and the country’s commitment to sustainable development. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, it is essential that we develop new technologies and solutions that can help reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable living.
Conclusion
The IIT Indore’s smart glass technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we design and construct buildings. By regulating light and heat, it can reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality. The technology is also versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, from buildings and homes to vehicles and even clothing. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it is essential that we develop new technologies and solutions that can help reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable living.
Source:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154
