Electrochromic Smart Window

Introduction Electrochromic materials change color in response to changing voltage. Used in conjunction with glass or plastic, this property allows for complete control over light transmission, easily converting between transparent and opaque and all shades in between. This technology could have a profound impact on lighting and heating, and recent advances have made electrochromic polymers a reality. These polymers are inexpensive, are easily controlled, and have fast response times, and they stand to replace conventional materials that passively alter their transmittance in response to UV radiation or electrochromic inorganics that are difficult to make and have slow response times. Technology Description Professors Taya and Xu at the University of Washington have developed a multitude of electrochromic polymers and enhancements that promise to advance this technology:
• Organic flexible electrochromic films and fibers
• Low power switching (1.2 V); no power to maintain colored state
• Fast switching speed (1 sec)
• Advanced monomer synthesis pathways
• Different colored electrochromic materials, including green, red, blue, and all combinations
• High contrast ratio, long lifetime, inexpensive, non-toxic materials Business Opportunity Effective electrochromic polymers present opportunities in any application that utilizes glass or plastic. Especially important applications include control of light, heat, and information display, such as in sunglasses, safety goggles, aeronautic and automotive windows, HVAC systems, and electronic displays and windows. Stage of Development Working prototypes of this technology have been developed.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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