A Systematic Review of the Most Recent Concepts in Smart Windows Technologies with a Focus on Electrochromics

Abstract

In the context of sustainability and in the face of ambitious goals towards the reduction of CO2 emission, the modification of transparency in architecture becomes an important tool of energy flow management into the building. Windows that dim to stop the energy transfer reduce the cooling load in the building. Recently, however, the latest achievements in the development of electrochromic materials allowed us to integrate some additional—previously unknown—functionalities into EC devices. The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of recent technological innovations in the field of smart windows and present the possibilities of recently established functionalities. This review article outlines recent general progress in electrochromic but concentrates on multicolour and neutral black electrochromism, spectrally selective systems, electrochromic energy storage windows, hybrid EC/TC systems, OLED lighting integrated with the EC device, and EC devices powered by solar cells. The review was based on the most recent publication from the years 2015–2020 recorded in the databases WoS and Scopus.

Magnetite Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Applications in Optics and Nanophotonics

“…Some technologies alter the light transmission properties of the windows and are grounded in the use of liquid crystals, polymers, etc. [ 110 ] ( Figure 15 ). We believe that the utilization of magnetic FFs for the fabrication of “smart” windows is a promising technology due to the unique properties of FFs.…”

Fundamentals and utilization of solid/ liquid phase boundary interactions on functional surfaces

“…There are examples for stimulus-responsive materials even in our everyday life: enough to mention liquid crystal displays (LCD) and windows with adjustable transmittance [118,119].…”

Theoretical Models of PV-EC Windows Based on the Architectural Analysis of PV-EC Technologies

“…The EC glazing requires a voltage of up to 10 V in order to enter the active phase. Solutions are being tested in which the EC glazing, similar to batteries, has the ability to store electricity, i.e., the so-called electrochromic energy storage devices (EECD) [22]. Nevertheless, the advantage of all PV-EC configurations results from the convergence of electricity generation and operation of the EC panes.…”

“…Solutions for changing the available colors are also being tested, such as red-blue (CoOx) or yellow-green (Rh 2 O 3 ) [28]. In the case of the EECD glazing in window applications, in addition to the standard color of the active phase, i.e., Prussian blue, a green color is available [22]. The above aesthetic differentiation can be related to the SBS configuration of the PV-EC glazing.…”