THINNER coating rationale - simultaneously minimize thermal conductivity and maximize optical transparency

This project is part of a collaboration where we focus on developing thermally insulating transparent barrier (THINNER) coatings on single pane windows. By incorporating nanoporous structure into window coatings, we propose to enhance thermal insulating properties while ensuring visible transparency of the window. The coating will exhibit strong heat carrier scattering due to (a) low material density to reduce heat conduction sites, and (b) phonon dispersion mismatch between different types of nanocrystals with different vibration modes. By simultaneously controlling light and thermal radiation transfer at the nanoscale, we are trying to understand the underlying physics in nanostructured porous materials as well to enhance the macroscale performance of single pane windows. We are also looking into developing scalable process for industrial application.