Smart glass, or switchable glass, is glass that uses advanced technologies to block light and insulate. The glass’s light transmission properties can be affected by light, heat or electricity. Mostly, this means the glass changes from translucent to transparent, blocking some, all or certain wavelengths of light. This technology can be applied to control light, heat, and privacy in homes, businesses and institutions such as hospitals. They provide cleaner environments and offer higher and differentiated levels of control than manual solutions such as blinds, curtains, shades and doors.
Types of Smart Glass & Smart Glass Window Technologies:
- Electrochromic
- Photochromic
- Thermochromic
- Suspended-particle
- Micro-blind
- Polymer-dispersed liquid crystals
Electrochromic Glass:
As the name indicates, these devices change glass properties in response to electricity and therefore lend control over the amount of light and heat transmitted. Once the desired level of opacity is set, no further electricity is needed to maintain it. This change occurs slowly, but settings can be adjusted to user preference. Windows on buildings, rearview mirrors, and museum display cases are examples of how electrochromic smart glass can be used. One drawback to the technology is that it may affect the durability of the glass.
Photochromic Window Tint:
Similar to electrochromic glass, the transference of light through photochromic glass is affected by an outside source, only this time it’s UV radiation (generally, but it can be affected by any light of sufficient intensity). However, unlike electrochromic glass, the transparency changes when the applied light source changes. This technology is most commonly seen in optical lenses that block the sun when outdoors but remain clear otherwise.
Thermochromic Glass:
As you might guess, thermochromic glass translucence changes when heat is applied. This change happens when the external temperature rises above the transition temperature and the thermochromic filter on the glass activates, transitioning the tint on the window in just minutes. This technology blocks light, heat and glare while retaining clear views through the glass.
Suspended-Particle Glass:
For opacity, the nanoparticles on this type of smart glass are randomly organized to block and absorb light. When electricity is applied, the suspended particles align to allow light to pass through. The amount of light allowed to pass depends on the variance of voltage, giving full control to the user. With electrically switchable smart glass, the voltage can be controlled through photosensors, motion detectors, apps, integration with computer systems, or knobs and switches.
Micro-Blind Smart Glass:
With this type of smart glass, micro blinds – thin, rolled metal blinds – on the glass can be controlled with electricity. When there is no voltage, the blinds are rolled and light can pass through. When electricity is applied, an electric field forms between the glass and the blinds that makes the blinds unroll and flatten out to block the light. This type of smart glass provides a level of privacy too and can be adjusted just like regular blinds to control light and privacy settings.
Polymer-Dispersed Liquid-Crystal Glass:
Dissolved liquid crystals on the polymer or glass in this technology harden and form droplets throughout the polymer or glass sheet, as the crystals are not compatible with the other materials. These droplets scatter the light and make the glass appear milky. When electricity is applied, the liquid crystals align and allow light to pass through, similar to suspended-particle glass. This type of smart glass is typically used in bathrooms, conference rooms, and ICU areas of hospitals for privacy control.
Are Smart Windows for Me?
Currently, these technologies can be quite expensive, but for some businesses and homeowners, they may be a good solution to light and insulation controls.
To find out more about glass and smart glass use for your home or business, contact the glass experts at Glass Doctor®.
All Glass Doctor franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about the smart glass services offered in your area, contact the Glass Doctor nearest you for details or a customized on-site assessment.
FAQs About Smart Glass Windows
50+ years of experience and dedicated team of knowledgeable service professionals make Glass Doctor the one-stop solution for all your home, business, and auto glass needs. Our commitment to exceptional service and superior products includes providing answers that improve clarity on the glass topics that matter most to you. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about smart glass windows.
What is the most common application of smart glass?
Smart glass is used in homes, offices, hospitals, museums, and vehicles. Applications include privacy windows, skylights, conference room dividers, rearview mirrors, and energy-efficient building designs.
Are smart glass windows energy-efficient?
Yes, they can help regulate indoor temperatures by blocking heat and light during warmer months and retaining heat during colder months. This reduces reliance on HVAC systems and lowers energy costs.
Are smart glass windows suitable for residential use?
Yes, they are ideal for homeowners seeking privacy, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics. Speak to your trusted service professional to help you evaluate costs versus benefits.
Can smart glass windows be retrofitted to existing windows?
In some cases, smart glass films can be applied to existing windows for similar effects. However, full smart glass panels usually require new installations. Your expert in all things glass can help walk you through the options for your windows.
Can smart glass windows be integrated with smart home systems?
Yes, many smart glass technologies can integrate with home automation systems, allowing users to control settings via apps, sensors, or voice commands. Discuss your smart home goals with your trusted service professionals to learn if your current setup is ready for smart glass windows.