
IIT Making Glass to Keep Buildings Cool in Summer & Warm in Winter
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, innovative solutions are being sought to reduce the environmental impact of our buildings. One such solution is being developed by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore, which is creating a “smart glass” that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current. This revolutionary technology has the potential to transform the way we design and build our structures, making them more eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
The smart glass, also known as an electronic curtain glass, is made using a special porous organic polymer. This unique material allows the glass to change color and transparency, allowing it to block sunlight and heat when needed, or letting it in when it’s cooler. This means that buildings equipped with this technology can maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, without relying on air conditioning or heating systems.
The implications of this innovation are far-reaching. By reducing the need for artificial cooling and heating, buildings can significantly decrease their energy consumption and carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also saves building owners and occupants money on their energy bills.
The smart glass is also designed to be highly flexible and adaptable, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. It can be used in windows, walls, and even roofs, allowing architects and builders to incorporate it into their designs in a variety of ways.
IIT Indore’s researchers are excited about the potential of their technology and are working to refine it further. “We are exploring various applications of this technology, including building facades, shading devices, and even architectural features,” said an official from the institute.
The development of the smart glass is the result of a collaboration between IIT Indore and various industry partners. The team has been working on the project for several years, and their research has been published in several scientific journals.
While the smart glass is still in the testing phase, it has already shown promising results. In laboratory experiments, the glass has been able to regulate temperature and light levels with remarkable precision, demonstrating its potential to improve indoor climate and energy efficiency.
The impact of the smart glass on the construction industry is likely to be significant. As more buildings are designed and built with this technology, it will reduce the need for traditional cooling and heating systems, leading to a decrease in energy consumption and emissions.
Furthermore, the smart glass has the potential to transform the way we live and work in buildings. By providing a comfortable and stable indoor climate, it can improve occupant health and productivity, while also reducing the need for artificial lighting and ventilation systems.
In conclusion, the development of the smart glass by IIT Indore is a significant breakthrough in the field of architecture and construction. Its ability to regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current makes it an ideal solution for eco-friendly buildings that can maintain a comfortable temperature year-round.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, innovative solutions like the smart glass are essential for reducing our environmental impact. By incorporating this technology into our buildings, we can create a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
News Source:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154