Self-tinting “breathing” window doubles as a transparent battery

Scientists at the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore have developed a smart window that is able to tint itself blue, partially blocking incoming light, without the need for an external power source. The device also functions as a small transparent battery that recharges on its own simply by interacting with the oxygen in its surroundings.

Self-tinting “breathing” window doubles as a transparent battery

Indoor cooling can make up a sizeable percentage of a building’s power consumption. To help with the problem, we’ve seen a number of “smart windows” pop up that act as high-tech shutters to shield incoming light during those hot sunny days.

The prototypes we’ve seen so far  –  whether designed for use in buildings or public transport, controllable with a light switch or wirelessly through a smartphone  –  generally rely on an external power source to function, which is both a hindrance and an ongoing additional cost. And though they are better looking and make for techier gadgets than your standard blinds or curtains, in the end, even the self-powered models are fairly limited in their functionality.

Professor Sun Xiaowei and colleagues at NTU have developed a self-powered smart window that is bi-functional. It can not only tint itself blue at the flip of a switch, but also act as a transparent electrochemical battery that can slowly charge itself by absorbing oxygen from it surroundings.

The window consists of two glass panes connected by electrical cables, with an oxygen-carrying liquid electrolyte in between them. The panes are wrapped inside a transparent conductive coating which is attached to an aluminum foil on one side and coated with an oxygen-sensitive blue dye on the other.

 

For more detail: Self-tinting “breathing” window doubles as a transparent battery

About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation and engineering. My writing style is clear and simple, and I am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and am able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.

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