The push for energy efficiency in our buildings continues to grow. The BCA’s recent announcement of the new voluntary ‘Green Mark for Super Low Energy’ certification framework for non-residential buildings is another sign of the importance of addressing energy consumption. Yet glass persists as a mainstay of our facades.

The ongoing challenge is how to make glass perform better. Halio smart-tinting glass from Kinestral Technologies takes on that challenge.

Using next-gen electrochromic technologies, this smart glass blocks up to 99.9 per cent of visible light and can respond dynamically to changing light conditions. It looks clear until receiving a command to tint, and then it is able to reach its darkest shade in less than three minutes. It can offer an unlimited number of tint options in cool grey tones.

Halio offers auto or manual adjustment

Halio can be fully automated to respond to changing weather conditions and to occupant activities and preferences. For immediate need-based adjustment, manual controls can be used to override the automated function.

Kinestral, the manufacturer of Halio, cites that the product lowers energy costs by about 20 per cent compared with the most popular Low-E glass due to its ability to automatically tint to block heat, thereby reducing demand on HVAC systems. Halio is sold, distributed and serviced by joint venture companies (Halio International and Halio North America) established by Kinestral and AGC Asahi Glass.

“We are convinced that Halio technology is poised to transform the glass industry,” said Jean-François Heris, senior executive officer of AGC and president of AGC Building and Industrial Glass Company. “Natural light is the number one most desired feature in office designs, but conventional glass requires blinds, shades, awnings or architectural elements that block heat and glare. Halio gives people the best of the outdoors while meeting increasingly stringent energy codes.” 

Photos courtesy of Kinestral Technologies. Featured interior by Alexandria Real Estate.