Curtain walls are a form of glass and aluminum exterior cladding offering a modern façade for both commercial and residential buildings. Popular due to their aesthetic appeal, natural light and energy efficiency, advanced glazing systems are further enhancing curtain wall appeal.
We decided to take a look at the new materials and designs setting the standard for the next generation of energy-efficient buildings.
Smart Glass
Smart glass technology leverages Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal or PDLC films to alter a windows transparency. PDLC works in hand with an app that allows occupants and building managers to manage daylighting and energy efficiency. Whether adjustments are programmed or on demand, smart glass helps reduce glare, makes the most of daylighting, provides privacy and reduces energy consumption.
In some cases, artificial intelligence (AI) is used to automate responses based on factors such as the amount of sunlight coming into a room. For example, on a cloudy day, transparency is increased to maximize natural daylight. Windows can also be programmed to adjust based on the changing sun exposure throughout the day or to provide more privacy at night.
Smart glass improves energy efficiency for both HVAC and artificial light consumption by as much as 20%. It also improves occupant comfort, interacting with external factors to improve the interior environment.
Photovoltaic Curtain Walls
Photovoltaic (PV) curtain walls integrate cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells into laminate glass to create energy-generating surfaces. PV curtain wall systems consist of semi-transparent PV glass panels for daylighting and views, and fully dark glass “spandrels” used for power generation. This design allows the curtain wall to maximize views and energy generation.
Installation requires a glazing contractor to install the windows and electrical contractor to manage interconnection of the power generating units. Although more expensive than conventional glazing, the renewable energy source offers a cost-efficient envelope that pays for itself over time.
Nanotechnology for Performance Enhancement
Nanotechnology using nanomaterial coatings will make smart windows even smarter. Conventional thermochromic films can only respond at higher temperatures of 154 Fahrenheit to block infrared heat. However, vanadium dioxide nanoparticles with tungsten respond at just 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because the costs of production are quite high, a new approach using continuous-flow processing could reduce production costs by as much as five times. As a result, the technology will become more accessible for building and restoration projects.
Nanotechnology is also being used to create lower maintenance windows with increased dirt resistance or self-cleaning properties. These advancements will help offset costs by reducing maintenance and improving longevity.
Parametric Design
Parametric design reduces energy consumption by considering the best materials and elements to suit specific climates and building types. Engineers use algorithms based on relevant parameters or variables to create structure and location-specific solutions on a project-to-project basis. Through parametric design builders create site-specific façades that improve air tempering, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.
3D Printing (3DP)
3DP works much like parametric design in that it offers builders the opportunity to create context-specific curtain walls. Designed for high-performance and modern aesthetics, 3DP technology also contributes to sustainability in the following ways:
- Reducing waste in both the manufacturing and restoration process
- Allowing envelope design to integrate improved energy performance
- Producing mono-materials and modular pre-assembled designs to facilitate easier construction, and disassembly at the end of the envelope’s life
With seamless design-to-fabrication workflows, 3DP reduces time and costs while maximizing performance and profitability.
These new materials and design techniques not only create energy-efficient buildings but also reduce building, restoration, and maintenance costs.
At WellDone Inc., we are committed to improving the construction process, incorporating various innovations to improve efficiencies, reduce risk, and maintain cost efficiency. Reach out to our team today.