Smart glass

Smart glass, also known as switchable glass, dynamic glass, and smart-tinting glass, is a type of <a href="/facts/Glass/hezRsAGf">glass</a> that can change its optical properties, becoming opaque or tinted, in response to electrical or thermal signals. This can be used to prevent sunlight and heat from entering a building during hot days, improving energy efficiency. It can also be used to conveniently provide privacy or visibility to a room.
There are two primary classifications of smart glass: active or passive. The most common active glass technologies used today are <a href="/facts/Electrochromic_device/wHktuLD3">electrochromic</a>, <a href="/facts/Liquid-crystal_display/8B6xGBEz">liquid crystal</a>, and suspended particle devices (SPD). <a href="/facts/Thermochromism/zQIFt3Pu">Thermochromic</a> and <a href="/facts/Photochromism/XHoeGYYc">photochromic</a> are classified as passive technologies.
When installed in the envelope of buildings, smart glass helps to create <a href="/facts/Climate_adaptive_building_shells/vgxepaYG">climate adaptive building shells</a>, which benefits include things such as natural light adjustment, visual comfort, <a href="/facts/Ultraviolet/kncBUqn5">UV</a> and <a href="/facts/Infrared/44XdJNcc">infrared</a> blocking, reduced energy use, thermal comfort, resistance to extreme weather conditions, and privacy. Some smart windows can self-adapt to heat or <a href="/facts/Passive_cooling/C9FxkEBu">cool</a> for <a href="/facts/Energy_conservation/Sk7d6Dg2">energy conservation in buildings</a>.
Smart windows can eliminate the need for blinds, shades or window treatments.
Some effects can be obtained by laminating smart film or switchable film onto flat surfaces using glass, acrylic or polycarbonate laminates. Some types of smart films can be applied to existing glass windows using either a self-adhesive smart film or special glue.
Spray-on methods for applying clear coatings to block heat and conduct electricity are also under development.

Smart glass open-in-new

Smart glass