Sol-gel method provides energy-saving method to address global warming

Highlights

• Application for both building and automotive glass
• Sol-gel method provides simplified application procedure
• Optimum conditions for the electro-chromic device operation were established
• Darkens within seconds, blanches within 1-2 minutes
• No deterioration of the glass’ optical properties

Our Innovation

• Electro-chromic effect allows the change of window-glass transparency under low-voltage current
• Photo-chromic effect allow change of degree of glass transparency upon exposure to light
• Prevents the entrance of solar light mainly in UV and in large part of visible spectrum
• Films obtained using sol-gel method are tungsten trioxide and other metal oxides
• More cost-effective than previous methods: Result achieved at room temperature
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The Opportunity

• Electro-chromic windows will be widely applied for energy saving in buildings and cars to prevent the indoor heating by sun
• Addresses future needs/trends for window glass due to global warming
• Effective filter of solar light reduces energy costs for cooling

Development Milestones

• Next steps to be decided with potential investors

Additional Information

• Renata Reisfeld and Tsiala Saraidarov, Innovative materials based on sol–gel technology, Optical Materials 28 (2006) 64-70