Preparation and characterization of gasochromic switchable-mirror window with practical size

To evaluate its efficiency, a prototype switchable-mirror glass with the size of 0.8 m×1.2 m was fabricated using DC magnetron sputtering. By introducing 4% hydrogen gas in Ar, it can be switched from the mirror state to the transparent state within 15 s. We installed the prototype switchable-mirror window in our testing facility and monitored energy consumption of the air conditioner in the room. Preliminary results show that the switchable-mirror window can save about 34% of cooling load compared with a transparent double-glazing window in sunny climate.