MEM4WIN

Windows are of crucial importance for the energy efficiency of buildings. This applies above all to low-energy houses. The cost-effective production of windows with reduced weight, low U-value and the possibility of generating energy is a technological challenge.

In the MEM4WIN project, PROFACTOR and eleven international project partners are researching methods for the production of windows that are characterized by increased energy efficiency, lower weight and the possibility of generating energy. In addition, cost-intensive production processes are to be reduced and expensive materials replaced in the best possible way. The aim is to develop an innovative frameless window with quadruple glazing with ultra-thin glass membranes.

PROFACTOR is dedicated to the following challenges in research:

• Organic photovoltaic cells (OPV) and solar thermal collectors, organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) and micro mirrors for interior lighting are to be incorporated into the glass to generate energy. The latter should automatically provide an ideal incidence of light depending on the time of day and the season. Transparent, full-surface electrodes and transparent conductor paths are required for OPV, OLED and micro mirrors. These should be able to be produced flexibly during window production using inkjet printing technology.
• Expensive raw materials for materials such as indium tin oxide and silver are to be replaced by graphene.

Concrete results have been published at cordis.europa.eu/project/rcn/104757/en. A U-value of 0.3 W/m2K, a weight reduction of 50 percent and a reduction in manufacturing costs of 20 percent compared to conventional windows with the same number of functionalities can be expected.

Project name:
Ultra thin glass membranes for advanced, adjustable and affordable quadruple glazing windows for zero-energy buildings

Funding
FP7, EU