Subscribe now

Environment

Smart cladding could control whether buildings retain or emit heat

A new material changes its infrared colour when a small electric current is applied, raising the possibility of buildings that store or release heat depending on outside temperatures

By Madeleine Cuff

3 February 2023

2HJ1JYB Buildings in the near north side Chicago skyline bask in the late evening sun not long before sunset.

Temperature control systems in buildings consume a lot of energy

Bruce Leighty/Alamy

A new material could provide smart cladding for buildings that alters how much heat they absorb or emit by changing their infrared colour with the flick of a switch, similar to sunglasses that turn dark when exposed to light.

Usually, a building’s temperature is controlled using air conditioning or heating units. But this is an energy-intensive and polluting way of managing things.

Buildings are responsible for about 40 per cent of global energy consumption and 33 per cent of greenhouse…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account