The windows could become a point to improve the energy insulation of buildings. An international group of researchers, led by Rice University in collaboration with institutions in Asia and North America, has developed a carbon-doped boron nitride (BN-C) glass coating that stands out for its ability to reflect heat, resist environmental deterioration and maintain high optical transparency.
The development of a glass coating
This new coating forms a transparent film that acts as a passive thermal barrier. Thanks to its low emissivity, it significantly reduces heat loss in cold climates, resulting in estimated energy savings of 2.9% compared to traditional solutions, according to simulations on buildings in cities such as New York, Beijing and Calgary.
One of the keys to the development is the manufacturing method: pulsed laser deposition at room temperature. This technique avoids the use of heat during the process, allowing the coating to be applied directly to glass without altering its structure. In addition, the resulting film resists scratches, humidity, ultraviolet radiation and thermal fluctuations, characteristics that give it exceptional durability even in outdoor environments.
Unlike conventional low-emissivity coatings that must be placed on the inside face of the glass to prevent degradation, this BN-C solution can be installed on the external surface. This feature broadens its application possibilities in densely built-up buildings and structures exposed to severe conditions.
The research team points out that the technology can be adapted to scalable production methods such as chemical vapor deposition or sputtering. This would allow industrial implementation in windows, polymers and even flexible materials or biological surfaces.
With more than 4 billion square feet of new windows installed annually in the United States alone, the overall energy savings potential is significant. Added to this is the economic viability of boron nitride, which is more affordable than materials typically used in commercial low-e glass, such as silver or indium oxides.
The development of the BN-C coating is a technical breakthrough and a strategic opportunity in the design of sustainable building solutions. Moreover, its integration into smart glass systems can contribute to minimizing the energy demand of buildings without compromising aesthetics and visibility.
With this innovation, windows cease to be weak points in thermal insulation and become active surfaces capable of improving urban energy efficiency, even in extreme climates.
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Source and photo: Rice University
