Woodford, C. (2020). How do electrochromic windows work? Explain That Stuff. https://www.explainthatstuff.com/electrochromic-windows.html.
In this article, Woodford (2020) illustrates what are electrochromic windows, which includes a comparison between the normal glass and electrochromic glass. The ordinary glass allows more heat to enter the building, which is why introducing the idea of smart windows may be appropriate. Electrochromism is a scientific concept in which materials change colour or switch from transparent to opaque when an electrical voltage is applied across. There are different types of electrochromic glass and each type is powered by different technology. Woodford focuses only on one type in detail, which is a technology based on the movement of lithium ions. Electrochromic windows have a huge environmental benefit. When in the darkened state, they reflect about 98% of the light falling on them which effectively reduces the need for air-conditioning. It is estimated that the use of electrochromic glass can cut peak energy use for cooling and lighting by around 20%. It can also save up to 8% of a building’s total energy consumption. Additional benefits include the privacy of the occupants in the building. However, glass printed with electrodes and metal coatings are bound to be many times more expensive than normal glass. Electrochromic glass may not be as durable as conventional glass. Furthermore, the time taken for electrochromic glass to darken is a factor of concern.
The article also provides useful information for our research project on increasing the cooling efficiency in office buildings through the improvement of windows. Electrochromic glass has proven to be a suitable substitution with its environmental benefits and relevance in our means to reduce energy usage in a building. The article has provided us with statistical evidence on how much energy can be saved, which is a specific focus for our research project. It has aided us with the understanding of a superior material that can be used instead.
