Electrochromic smart windows: Progress on energy efficiency, durability and manufacturability

This paper deals superficially with three aspects of electrochromic smart windows. Their energy efficiency is discussed, and it is argued that a control strategy considering whether a room is in use or not can lead to large savings of the energy needed for space cooling. With regard to durability, it is shown that chemical compatibility between the electrolyte and the electrochromic c films can be achieved without loss of optical transparency. Finally, we touch upon manufacturability and present data on precharging of electrochromic films by gas treatment and point at possibilities of using roll coating and continuous lamination of polyester foils.