Thermochromic Energy Efficient Windows: Fundamentals, Recent Advances, and Perspectives

Abstract

Thermochromic energy efficient windows represent an important protocol technology for advanced architectural windows with energy-saving capabilities through the intelligent regulation of indoor solar irradiation and the modulation of window optical properties in response to real-time temperature stimuli. In this review, recent progress in some promising thermochromic systems is summarized from the aspects of structures, the micro-/mesoscale regulation of thermochromic properties, and integration with other emerging energy techniques. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities in thermochromic energy-efficient windows are outlined to promote future scientific investigations and practical applications in building energy conservation.

Engineering Self‐Adaptive Multi‐Response Thermochromic Hydrogel for Energy‐Saving Smart Windows and Wearable Temperature‐Sensing

“…When PHC‐Gel hydrogel was placed on a heated plate at 45 °C at 3 s, a rapid transition from transparent to white opaque occurred, and the whole body turned white at ≈9 s, with a response time of ≈6 s. The reason for the above is that PHC‐Gel hydrogel contains temperature‐sensitive PNIPAM and HPC molecular chains inside, and when placed in a high‐temperature environment, it could rapidly form hydrophobic aggregation, resulting in rapid whitening. [ 35–37 ] When the temperature continued to increase, PHC‐Gel still lost water, but the overall morphology did not change significantly. The above results indicate that PHC‐Gel hydrogels have a rapid response to high temperature.…”

Evaluating the potential of persistent luminescence in counteracting urban overheating

“…Levinson et al [8] found that using NIR-reflective roof tile coatings can result in a reduction in surface temperature and heat flux. More recently, thermochromic materials, which change their optical properties based on temperature, have been investigated to reduce winter heat loss [9]. Fabiani et al [10] demonstrated that an innovative thermochromic roof configuration can reduce cooling load by 6.59% per square meter, slightly less than a more common cool application, but with no negative effects in winter.…”

MoO3 nanowire growth on VO2/WO3 for thermochromic applications

“…1,2 The development of efficient energy conversion technologies is of utmost importance in the modern era, and thermochromic materials are a promising avenue in this regard. 3 In particular, the thermochromic properties of VO 2 have received significant attention in recent years due to their potential for use in various applications, such as temperature sensors, energy harvesting, and cooling devices. The ability of VO 2 to undergo a reversible phase transition from an insulating to a metallic state with a change in temperature makes it an ideal candidate for thermochromic applications.…”