NTU scientists invent self-tinting window which does not require power source

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) scientists (from left) Zheng Ke, Professor Sun Xiao Wei and Liu He have developed a smart window which can darken or brighten without the need for an external power source. -- ST PHOTO: LAU FOOK KONG
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) scientists (from left) Zheng Ke, Professor Sun Xiao Wei and Liu He have developed a smart window which can darken or brighten without the need for an external power source. -- ST PHOTO: LAU FOOK KONG

SINGAPORE- Scientists from the Nanyang Technological University(NTU) have invented a smart window which can darken or brighten without the need for an external power source.

The window is powered instead by a chemical reaction between a pigment called Blue Prussian and dissolved oxygen in the electrolyte, which gives the glass a blue tint.

The tinted window can cut light penetration by about half, said lead scientist, Professor Sun Xiaowei, from NTU. Currently, most windows either use permanent tinting which cannot brighten at night or they can change their light transmission properties only with a power source.

"Our technology is very attractive as a zero-sum consumption smart window. Building owners and even common households can reap energy savings right from the outset and over the long term," said Professor Sun.

He said his team is in talks with companies to commercialise their technology.

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