IIT Making Glass to Keep Buildings Cool in Summer & Warm in Winter
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, researchers at IIT Indore are working on a revolutionary technology to make buildings more eco-friendly. The Indian Institute of Technology in Indore is developing a “smart glass” that can regulate light and heat by applying a small electric current. This innovative technology has the potential to transform the way we design and build structures, making them more sustainable and energy-efficient.
The “smart glass” is made using a special porous organic polymer that can change its transparency and color by applying a small electric current. This allows it to block sunlight and heat when needed, or let it in when it’s cooler. This technology has numerous applications, from commercial buildings to residential homes, and even transportation systems like cars and aircraft.
According to the researchers, the smart glass can be used to control the amount of light and heat that enters a building. This can help reduce the need for air conditioning and heating, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. The technology can also be used to create buildings that are more energy-efficient and require less maintenance.
The smart glass is made by coating a thin layer of the porous organic polymer on a glass surface. The polymer is made up of tiny pores that can be controlled by applying an electric current. When an electric current is applied, the pores open up, allowing light and heat to pass through the glass. When the current is turned off, the pores close, blocking light and heat.
This technology has numerous benefits, including:
- Energy efficiency: The smart glass can help reduce the need for air conditioning and heating, which can lead to significant energy savings.
- Improved indoor climate: The smart glass can help regulate the indoor climate, making it more comfortable for occupants.
- Increased durability: The smart glass is more durable than traditional glass and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
- Reduced maintenance: The smart glass requires less maintenance than traditional glass, as it can self-cleaning and does not require frequent cleaning.
The researchers at IIT Indore are working on refining the technology to make it more scalable and cost-effective. They are also exploring its applications in various industries, including construction, automotive, and aerospace.
The development of the smart glass is a significant breakthrough in the field of sustainable building technologies. It has the potential to transform the way we design and build structures, making them more eco-friendly and energy-efficient. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, innovative technologies like this can play a critical role in reducing our carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable future.
Source:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/319121e5-f2f2-4d36-b9bd-364925f8a154
