Smart windows, also known as switchable or dynamic glazings, have been extensively investigated since the 1980s for their potential to improve both energy efficiency and user comfort in buildings. However, widespread market adoption of smart windows has remained limited due to barriers related to, e.g., functionality, cost, and durability. These challenges have inspired significant research and development (R&D) efforts, paving the way for new opportunities in materials science, building physics, and architecture [1].

Our R&D efforts integrate materials development, device engineering, building performance modelling, and sustainability assessment to advance smart window technologies. Key research areas include transition metal oxide-based chromogenic materials (e.g., WO3 and VO2) [2, 3] and polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films. In particular, PDLC-based smart glazings are a commercially mature technology with considerable potential for large-scale integration into the built environment, contributing to improved occupant comfort, enhanced building energy performance, and better indoor environmental quality.

The widespread implementation of PDLC-based smart glazings in the built environment requires consideration of factors extending beyond their physical properties. Therefore, a systematic and multidisciplinary evaluation of the structural, optical, and thermal performance of PDLC-based smart glazings, combined with assessments of economic viability, long-term durability, and user acceptance, is crucial. This presentation examines the opportunities and challenges associated with PDLC-based smart glazings and identifies key research directions needed to accelerate their large-scale deployment in the built environment.

References

1. R. Tällberg, B.P. Jelle, R. Loonen, T. Gao, M. Hamdy. Comparison of the energy saving potential of adaptive and controllable smart windows: A state-of-the-art review and simulation studies of thermochromic, photochromic and electrochromic technologies. Sol. Energy Mater. Sol. Cells, 2019, 200, 109828.
2. T. Gao, B. P. Jelle. Electrochromism of hexagonal sodium tungsten bronze nanorods. Sol. Energy Mater. Sol. Cells, 2018, 177, 3-8.
3. X.P. Zhao, S. Alex Mofid, T. Gao, G. Tan, B.P. Jelle, X.B. Yin, R.G. Yang. Durability-enhanced vanadium dioxide thermochromic film for smart windows. Mater. Today Phys., 2020, 13, 100205.

Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal, PDLC, Smart Glazing, Smart Window, Building