CsxWO3-SH nanoparticles co-doped with thermochromic microcapsules for flexible smart windows with controlled visible transmittance and high near-infrared shielding performance

The problem of energy consumption in buildings is getting more and more attention. As a result, developing a smart window with electrically adjustable visible light transmittance while also providing near-infrared (NIR) shielding is extremely important. Herein, A smart window was developed that simultaneously regulates visible light transmittance and provides NIR shielding by co-doping polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) with cesium tungstate modified with thiol groups (CsxWO 3 -SH) and thermochromic microcapsule (TM). The PDLC with the synergistic effect of CsxWO 3 -SH and TM has lower saturation voltage (V sat ) and better contrast than the PDLC doped with CsxWO 3 -SH and TM alone. In addition, the transmittance of the PDLC samples containing 4 wt % CsxWO 3 -SH nanoparticles and 7 wt % TM under visible light can be controlled between 3 % and 48 %, and can obstruct over 90 % of the NIR radiation. The results of thermal insulation suggest that the temperature of the conventional PDLC is 5.56 °C higher than that of the co-doped PDLC after 60 min of sunlight exposure, demonstrating that the co-doped PDLC film possesses superior visible light modulation and NIR shielding capabilities. This research will establish a solid foundation for the advancement of energy-efficient smart windows for buildings.