Scientists in London have created a coating for glass, which reflects or absorbs heat, depending on the temperature outside. Professors Parkin & Manning, of University College, developed the intelligent window coating as part of Mr Manning's PhD studies. The thin film is made out of a material called vanadium dioxide, & undergoes a change depending on the weather outside. On cold days the "thermochromic coating" allows all sunlight in & on hot days, once the outside temperature reaches a certain level, the film begins acting as a filter, blocking infrared rays, which are responsible for generating heat. Parkin told CNN the film could be manufactured to have a predetermined heat threshold of between 0-70 C, although it would be most useful if it were set to work at 25 C. Its altering properties mean it could act as a replacement or partial replacement for air-conditioners.
