A 'Window' That Controls Sunlight Is Coming Out

This is the operation of an energy-saving smart window that autonomously responds to external illuminance environments using optical film (left) and wallpaper-type screens for beam projectors (from the center).

[Asia Economy Reporter Junho Hwang] A domestic research team has developed a new optical film fabrication technology that allows free control of light transmittance. By simply applying the film without replacing the window, light can be controlled, and it is expected to be utilized in various fields such as beam projector screens. KAIST announced on the 14th that a research team including Professor Seokwoo Jeon from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Professor Jungwook Hong from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Professor Jonghwa Shin from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering developed an optical film composed of a three-dimensional nano composite.

The research team succeeded in developing an optical film capable of adjusting visible light transmittance from 16% to 90% by utilizing an elastic nano composite. This performance surpasses existing films that had light control functions within a 46% range. In particular, the researchers succeeded in fabricating the largest existing optical modulation film with a size of 3 inches × 3 inches. When this film is stretched, light scattering occurs at countless small holes generated at the interface between the oxide and the elastomer.

The research team also confirmed the durability and safety of the film through repeated operation tests up to 10,000 cycles, deformation tests, operation tests in high-temperature environments below 70°C, and underwater operation tests. Furthermore, based on material mechanical and optical theoretical analysis, they elucidated the mechanism of light scattering phenomena occurring at the interface.

The research team expects that this film can be used as an energy-saving smart window with adjustable transmittance. It is also anticipated to be applicable in various fields, such as in roll-type beam projector screens.

The research results were published last month in the academic journal Advanced Science.

Professor Hong Jung-wook (left rear clockwise), Professor Jeon Seok-woo, Dr. Lee Sang-eon, Doctoral candidate Cho Dong-hwi

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