Sun blocking window film and coatings have been around for decades, but they are not all created equal.
The order of the layers played a key role in the coating’s capabilities.
To find the optimal configuration, Luo and Kim needed to test every possible arrangement.
In testing, their solution was able to reduce room temperature by 5.4 7.2 degrees Celsius.
Luo likened the coating to polarized sunglasses in that they lessen the intensity of incoming light.
Best yet, the coating can be applied retroactively to existing windows and even be used on automobile glass.
The quantum annealing test approach, meanwhile, can be adapted to help design other materials with complex properties.
The team’s research has beenpublishedin Cell Reports Physical Science.
No word yet on commercial availability.
Image credit:Scott Webb
