Revolutionary metamaterial developed in Germany promises greener buildings

A group of German researchers has developed a revolutionary metamaterial, 95% transparent, which optimizes the use of sunlight to heat, air condition and illuminate the interiors of homes

In Germany, researchers have developed an innovative metamaterial, more transparent than glass, that helps regulate light and temperature inside buildings. This discovery could significantly reduce the energy consumption of buildings, offering a sustainable solution for heating, cooling, and lighting.

Scientists at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have created a metamaterial that utilizes sunlight to heat, cool, and illuminate the interiors of homes. This new material has a visible light transmission rate of 95%, surpassing the 91% of traditional glass, and diffuses 73% of incident sunlight. The research findings were published in the journal Nature Communications.

The new metamaterial is designed to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. Heating, artificial lighting, and air conditioning are major sources of energy consumption. The material developed by KIT provides a sustainable solution, ensuring a more comfortable indoor climate without the need for additional energy. Additionally, the material is self-cleaning, making it an efficient alternative to traditional glass walls and ceilings, which often prove less energy-efficient.

Properties and applications of the metamaterial

The metamaterial, presented as a multifunctional micro-photonic film (PMMM), was developed at KIT’s Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) and the Light Technology Institute (LTI). Made from a polymer with microscopic silicone pyramids, each about one-tenth the size of a human hair, this film efficiently diffuses light, offers excellent radiative cooling properties, and boasts high transparency.

The material also has superhydrophobic properties, similar to a lotus leaf, which allows it to automatically shed dirt from its surface, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. According to Dr. Gan Huang of IMT:

“The material can optimize the use of sunlight indoors, provide passive cooling, and reduce dependence on air conditioning. The solution is scalable and can be integrated into building plans and green urban developments.”

Source: Kit.edu