Developing the Next Three Generations of Zero-Energy Windows

It is without question that building façade and envelope design is an extremely complicated science. Thousands of materials come together to create a dynamic interface between a constantly changing outdoor environment and stable indoor conditions.

Advanced glazing has great importance due to its profound impact on total building energy performance. In some cases, the glazing may have the single greatest impact of any single building component. In fact, research indicates that high performance glazing is critical in “fulfilling the vision of zero energy buildings”.1 Analytical tools and policy have matured in the last several years providing additional impetus for its adoption. Additionally, advanced glazing is in the midst of a technological revolution which heightens its potential energy savings and accelerates the payback period (and financial rationale) both in new construction and in energy retrofits of existing buildings. For these reasons, a brief overview of state-of-the-art glazing is in order.

1Brandon Tinianov, Ph.D., P.E., LEED AP, is the Chief Technology Officer at Serious Materials.