Smart Electrochromic Windows to Enhance Building Energy Efficiency and Visual Comfort

Abstract

Electrochromic systems for smart windows make it possible to enhance energy efficiency in the construction sector, in both residential and tertiary buildings. The dynamic modulation of the spectral properties of a glazing, within the visible and infrared ranges of wavelengths, allows one to adapt the thermal and optical behavior of a glazing to the everchanging conditions of the environment in which the building is located. This allows appropriate control of the penetration of solar radiation within the building. The consequent advantages are manifold and are still being explored in the scientific literature. On the one hand, the reduction in energy consumption for summer air conditioning (and artificial lighting, too) becomes significant, especially in "cooling dominated" climates, reaching high percentages of saving, compared to common transparent windows; on the other hand, the continuous adaptation of the optical properties of the glass to the changing external conditions makes it possible to set suitable management strategies for the smart window, in order to offer optimal conditions to take advantage of daylight within the confined space. This review aims at a critical review of the relevant literature concerning the benefits obtainable in terms of energy consumption and visual comfort, starting from a survey of the main architectures of the devices available today.

Automatic light-adjusting electrochromic device powered by perovskite solar cell

“…ncreased cooling demands in modern buildings and automobiles have led to increase in the consumption of energy [1][2][3] . Thus, it is urgent and meaningful to develop new technologies to efficiently modulate the light-heat flow between residences and surrounding environments.…”

Chromogenic Technologies for Energy Saving

“…Several studies have recently demonstrated the benefits associated with the building integration of chromogenic devices, mainly ECs [15,78,80,85,89]. Sibilio et al [36] observed that EC devices may allow high energy savings (up to 39-59%, in some cases), but such benefits are indeed influenced by orientation, the control strategy adopted, climatic conditions, and location.…”

A study of the influence of polyvinyl pyrrolidone concentration in the deposition electrolyte on the properties of electrochromic Ni(OH)2 films

“…Electrochromic devices are devices that can change their optical characteristics such as the degree of transparency, opacity, reflectivity, and color. One of the options for the application of electrochromic devices can be their use as executive elements of "Smart windows" [1]. At the same time, electrochromic devices can be applied in other areas.…”

“…It should be noted that the price of electrochromic devices is high [1], and their characteristics are not always stable over time.…”

“…The preparation was carried out electrochemically from a solution containing 0.5 M NiSO 4 . At the same time, the high price, averaging 500 US $/m 2 [1], limits their use. It is determined by several reasons.…”