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 make our buildings more eco-friendly and energy-efficient. In a breakthrough development, researchers at IIT Indore have been working on a revolutionary ‘smart glass’ that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current. This electronic curtain glass is designed to change color and transparency, allowing it to block sunlight and heat when needed, or letting it in when it’s cooler.
The smart glass is made using a special porous organic polymer that can be controlled by a small electric current. This means that the glass can be adjusted to suit the changing weather conditions, providing optimal comfort and energy efficiency. For instance, during the summer months, the glass can be set to block sunlight and heat, keeping the building cool and reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, it can be adjusted to let in more sunlight and warmth, reducing the need for heating.
The development of this smart glass is a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science and architecture. Traditional glass is often a major culprit when it comes to energy consumption, as it allows heat to escape in the winter and enter in the summer. The new smart glass, on the other hand, can be tailored to meet specific climate conditions, making it an ideal solution for buildings in different parts of the world.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. For one, it could revolutionize the construction industry, making buildings more sustainable and energy-efficient. It could also have a significant impact on urban planning, as cities could be designed with smart glass buildings that provide optimal comfort and reduce energy consumption.
The researchers at IIT Indore are excited about the potential of their discovery. “This technology has the potential to transform the way we build and design buildings,” said an official from the institute. “We are working on scaling up the production of this smart glass, and we hope to make it commercially available soon.”
The development of this smart glass is also a testament to the innovative spirit of India’s research institutions. IIT Indore has a strong track record of developing cutting-edge technologies, and this breakthrough is just the latest example of its commitment to innovation and excellence.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, innovative solutions like this smart glass are crucial. By providing a more sustainable and energy-efficient way of building and designing buildings, we can reduce our carbon footprint and create a more sustainable future.
Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154
