Electrochromics for Smart Windows: Oxide-Based Thin Films

The first civilizations were built using natural materials: wood, stone, leather, bone, horn, linen or hemp. Recently, an emergence of plastics and composites has been observed in the building, automotive, aeronautic, sport and military sectors. But gradually, researchers and engineers have had to use materials with their own functions. Nanotechnology has modified the landscape of energy generation, energy storage and energy saving devices. Architectural fenestration can extensively benefit from green nanotechnologies. Therefore, our habitat will have to evolve technologically, and this will undoubtedly pass through the use of high-tech windows, called smart, also called “smart windows”. These smart windows have the ability to block 2the heat waves induced by infrared radiation from the sun, and therefore, limit the use of air-conditioning systems while continuing to contribute to the well-being of people working or residing in these buildings.