Description:
Background
Dynamic windows or smart glass, are electronically tintable windows with many practical uses. From applications in energy conservation to uses automobiles, buildings, and sunglasses, dynamic windows are a very promising technology. Previous studies have demonstrated that the incorporation of robust dynamic windows into buildings leads to a 10% average reduction in energy consumption due to heating, cooling, and lighting savings. Additionally, dynamic windows are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional window blinds and their switching can be automated. Recent developments in using reversible metal electrodeposition in dynamic windows is shown to be superior to conventional uses of electrochromic materials in the speed and efficiency.
Technology
Researchers the University of Nevada, Reno have developed a more efficient reversible metal electrodeposition-based dynamic window. Expanding on current methods using one working electrode, we devised a window allowing for simultaneous deposition on both panes, leading to improved contrast ratio and color switching speed. Our technology contains an aqueous solvent and an additive which stabilizes the electrolyte, beyond the usual 0C – 100C limit, such as applications in sunroofs or windows can easily surpass these limits. The net reaction during window tinting is the electrochemical movement of metal on the window frame to the Pt-modified ITO electrode. To turn the window clear, a positive voltage is applied to the device with respect to the working electrode, and the opposite reaction occurs and metal is re-plated on the counter electrode frame. In one minute, 100 cm2 windows uniformly switch between a clear state with 75% transmission and a color-neutral black state possessing 10% trans-mission, which represents a significant improvement over previous metal-based architectures. Using a double-paned window with two tin-doped Pt modified indium oxide (ITO) on glass working electrodes to increase switching speed. Dynamic windows that function through the reversible electrodeposition of metals offer fast switching.
Advantages
- Low cost and low power.
- Does not require power to maintain a state.
- More temperature stable than gel electrolyte-based windows.
- Better control of heat flow.
- Color neutral switching.
- Non-toxic aqueous electrolytes
- Superior aesthetics
Publications & Patent
UNR18-006
