Top Innovators: Virtriosic
By By Steve Reno October 28, 2010
Vitriosic is developing an affordable, simple way to save energy and cut back on air conditioning costs. The companys electrochromic glass can switch from transparent to translucent at the touch of a button. The glass darkens rapidly when electricity is applied, blocking light and heat from the sun.
Glass that can change its opacity, or smart glass, is already commercially available. What makes Vitriosics glass different is that it doesnt require a constant flow of electricity to work. The glass uses an organic polymer technology developed by Minoru Taya, a professor in the University of Washingtons College of Engineering. A short burst of energy changes the opacity of the glass, and no electrical infrastructure is required.
The company also believes the glass can be manufactured much more cheaply than competing systems. Windows made out of Vitriosics smart glass would eliminate the need for blinds or curtains. The glass would also keep buildings cool by blocking sunlight, and could be controlled centrally to manage the temperature inside a home or office building. This feature could significantly reduce the amount of energy and money spent on air conditioning, making Vitriosics product an attractive option in the era of LEED-certified construction.
CEO and co-founder Todd Ostrander says the company is currently working with glass manufacturers to test the products durability and longevity, and hopes to have it on the market later this year.
