Smart Glass in Building Curtain Walls: Advancing Green and Intelligent Architecture

The application of smart glass in building façades is rapidly expanding, becoming a key component of green, low-carbon, and intelligent architecture. Current mainstream technologies include electrochromic (EC), liquid crystal-based switching (e.g., PDLC, DLC), suspended particle devices (SPD), as well as photochromic and thermochromic solutions.

Electrochromic glass—represented by global brands like SageGlass—uses inorganic or organic electrochromic layers deposited directly on glass or flexible PET film, enabling reversible tinting at low voltage (typically under 5V). Its advantages include low energy consumption, adjustable solar heat gain coefficient, high visual comfort, and excellent thermal insulation, making it ideal for premium commercial façades. However, it suffers from slower switching speeds over large areas and relatively high costs.

PDLC offers fast response and strong privacy control (transparent when powered, opaque when off), but provides limited solar heat management—more suited to interior partitions than exterior glazing. SPD allows continuous light transmission control but requires high voltage (~110V) and lacks long-term proven outdoor durability, raising concerns among building owners.

In contrast, photochromic and thermochromic glasses are passive smart materials that automatically tint in response to UV light or ambient temperature—requiring no external power. Their simple structure, easy installation, and low maintenance make them highly effective for skylights, canopies, and roof shading systems. Yet their lack of user control and delayed response limit use in vertical façades.

In summary, EC technology remains the preferred choice for high-end architectural façades due to its safety, controllability, and energy efficiency, while passive photochromic/thermochromic solutions offer cost-effective alternatives for specific applications. With ongoing material innovations and scale-up in manufacturing, smart glass is poised to play an even greater role in the future of sustainable buildings.

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