Abstract

Switchable thermal insulation, an opaque panel capable of alternating between a thermally conductive and insulated state, is considered as an alternative route to regulate thermal environment by selectively harvesting heat from external environment. Extensive work has been undertaken by researchers to develop switchable insulation technologies for thermal regulation in the built environment, automobiles, and aerospace applications, where conventional space heating and cooling technologies are either too bulky or too energy consuming to meet design requirements. In this seminar, I would start by a brief review on existing switchable thermal insulation technologies with a particular focus on their working principles, achievable performance and improvement opportunities. Then, I will present my recent progress on the thermal performance of a novel switchable insulation. Finally, I would like to discuss the major challenges and the research plan for the future.