Exploring New Smart Window Technologies

DGG’s parent company, Intercomet, is exploring new smart window technologies, including those based on new advanced “plasmochromic” nanomaterials that would also allow a selective control of radiation transmission in the visible and infrared regions. This project, in conjunction with the capabilities of the LEITAT technology center, proposes the realization of “plasmochromic” modules with suitable characteristics to be manufactured continuously on flexible thermoplastic substrates. Our prime objectives are: Formulation of inks based on electrochromic nanomaterials capable of selectively controlling solar radiation in two different spectral regions (visible and / or infrared) and Low temperature curable gel or solid electrolyte formulation.

ONGOING RESEARCH ON PLASMONIC WINDOWS This reaserch line aims at developing multifunctional photoelectrochemical devices capable of both generating electric power by solar energy conversion and minimizing the energy required for thermal conditioning (and artificial lighting) through a dynamic control of the solar energy transmission. In particular we are implementing an innovative class of smart electrochromic devices that are able to selectively shield the infrared heat loads carried by sunlight, thus prospecting the blooming of a next generation of “zero-energy” glazed building envelopes.

HOW DOES A PLASMONIC ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICE WORK? The optical transmittance in the NIR can be gradually tuned upon the application of a small bias potential (from -2.0 V to 1.5 V) Optical modulation is fully reversible VIS transparency can be kept unvaried

“PLASMOCHROMICS” VS EXISTING GLAZING TECHNOLOGIES

SOLAR CONTROL GLAZING Spectral selectivity NO dynamic modulation films made by high vacuum deposition techniques

PLASMOCHROMIC TECHNOLOGY Spectral selectivity Dynamic modulation switiching time ~100 ms in the NIR region High stability > 10000 cycles Power consumption <150mW/m2 Charge retention films made by low cost deposition techniques