Magnetic liquid window helps buildings keep their cool

(Credit: Jan-Peter Kasper/FSU)

The prototype window is a suspended particle device (SPD) where iron nanoparticles are circulated in a liquid between a laminate of structured, rolled glass and a thin cover with high surface strength. Each laminate contains multiple channels a few millimetres wide through which the liquid flows. The capture and release of particles happens in a separate tank, so an electrical connection at the window isn’t required. According to the researchers, the low thickness of the SPD of typically 4–6mm allows for integration with standard double or triple glazing.

Light permeability can be altered at the touch of a button, and when fully shaded the device has a claimed solar thermal harvesting efficiency in the region of 45 per cent. Published in the journal Advanced Sustainable Systems, the research holds promise for significantly improving the efficiency of buildings by both reducing cooling loads and generating heat for use elsewhere.