Comprehensive study on the light shielding potential of thermotropic layers for the development of new materials

Abstract

In recent years thermotropic overheating protection glazings have been the focus for both solar thermal collector technology and architecture. A thermotropic glazing changes its light transmittance from highly transparent to light diffusing upon reaching a certain threshold temperature autonomously and reversibly. In thermotropic systems with fixed domains (TSFD) the scattering domains are embedded in a polymer matrix, which exhibits a sudden change of the refractive index upon reaching a threshold temperature. The aim of the present study was to comprehensively investigate the light shielding characteristics and potential of TSFD materials by applying simulation of light scattering in particle-filled layers. In random walk simulations a variety of parameters were varied systematically, and the effect on the light transmission behavior of TSFD was studied. The calculation steps of the simulation process are shown in detail. The simulations demonstrate that there is great potential for the production of functional materials with high overheating protection efficiency.

Introduction of a New In-Situ Measurement System for the Study of Touch-Feel Relevant Surface Properties

“…Rough surfaces prevent a single illumination through the specimen, as light would undergo multiple scattering when passing the specimen. The light scattering must be taken into account by the use of optical material parameters, the roughness of the structure and the layer thickness [67]. Consequently, rough surfaces are illuminated from the opposite side, where the contact between the finger and the surface is formed, via an LED strip (SOLAROX 24V Power RGB LED Strip) surrounding the finger.…”