Electrochromics on a roll: Web-coating and lamination for smart windows

Electrochromic devices can vary the throughput of solar energy and visible light in glazing for buildings, which are then able to combine improved energy efficiency with enhanced indoor comfort and convenience. The technology can be implemented in different ways; here the focus is on web-coated devices which can be delivered, on a roll or in the form of large sheets, as foil for glass lamination. The present paper introduces the technology, discusses web-coating versus in-line glass coating, mentions lamination, and touches on possibilities to combine electrochromism with other functionalities such as thermochromic control of solar energy transmittance. The purpose of the paper is to give a tutorial overview of a technology that is currently introduced in buildings.