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Smart Windows

Smart windows of the future are made of a type of glass that blocks heat and light and still are energy efficient. These windows are composed of electro chromic glass that can be tinted with film to block infrared radiation and at the same time be transparent. These windows block the heat of the sun while selectively helping these windows to be energy efficient.

The glass being used in smart windows has the ability to change dependent on need the reflection of solar radiation by using heat, light or electricity. It is considered a very sound way of lowering the use of energy for cooling as well as lighting buildings. In fact the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) believes that smart windows are so beneficial that once on the market they could reduce the energy consumption in the United States by approximately five percent. This number could increase once the cost of using smart windows decreases. It's hoped that once this happens, more architects and engineers will use them in the design of industrial complexes, high rises, and individual homes. They can actually be compared to the use of rearview mirrors in cars where there is a daytime aspect of the mirrors and a nighttime choice as well.

Smart windows [http://myreviewboost.com/index.php/professional-services/sungate-energy-solutions.html] employ the concept of a rechargeable battery that is also transparent. These also are called electro chromic windows. Basically, two pieces of glass are used to act as a sandwich surrounding electrolyte materials that are located between the two pieces of glass. The electrolytes create a charging and discharging of electrochemical material. One of the new types of smart glass consists of nano-crystals inside the niobium oxide glass that is deposited on one side of the electrolyte while the other side acts as an electrode. With the addition of a tiny amount of electricity, the nano-crystals become charged with electricity. When even more electricity is added, the niobium glass becomes electro-chemically reduced. When another small amount of electricity is introduced, it switches the glass to becoming fully magnetic. This works like a three switch lamp that intensifies the light as the switch gets turned. The key in marketability will be concerned with making smart windows [http://myreviewboost.com/index.php/professional-services/sungate-energy-solutions.html] that are cost effective. That basically means that the costs of the windows have to be relative to the amount of money saved on energy.

The future of windows that can control energy use will a big plus not only regarding structures but will also be used in public transportation, space travel, and flight. It could reduce dependency on fossil fuel and create an inexpensive and clean means of producing energy.

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