Smart Glass Properties
September 24th, 2008
Smart Glass Properties
- Suspended particle devices – These are thin laminates of rod-like particles suspended in a medium, which is attached to the glass or layered between two glass sheets. Normally, the particles are in random state in the fluid and absorb light fully, giving the glass sheet or panel an opaque blue, black or grey tint. However when an electric current is passed through it, the rod like particles taken on an aligned position – allowing light to pass through easily – increasing the visibility of the glass instantly. A constant but low electric current supply has to be maintained in these devices to keep the glass in a constant transparent state.
- Liquid crystal devices – In these LCD walls, liquid crystal droplets are used to get opacity or transparency in glass panel. The droplets are layered between two glass panels and are randomly scattered. In that state they scatter light – controlling inflow of heat effectively and look white from outside. These devices with special adjustments of tint, color, etc are effectively used in areas needing privacy like the shower door, the intensive care unit of a hospital, a private meeting place, etc.
Why use it?
These types of glasses ensure reduction in the air conditioning, heating, as well as lighting expenses because of their light or heat blocking features. One can easily do away with the expenses of installing blinds, curtains; light screens etc as well as be free from the regular maintenance requirements of such devices. Moreover, they block the ultraviolet sunrays making the insides of the building healthier and reducing the problem of fading curtains, bedspreads and sofas. The greatest feature of such glass applications in commercial usage is its durability and the total control that the user has on how he wants his office or shop to look or feel at any given time. It is thus really smart to use smart glass – be it for residential uses or for commercial buildings!
