Reducing HVAC Loads with Biomimetic Building Facades.

Scientists at the University of Toronto have developed an optofluidic system inspired by the multi-layered skins of squid and chameleons for active camouflage to be able to actively control light intensity, spectrum, and scattering independently. The system could be used to reduce HVAC loads in buildings and keep them cooler on hot days without keeping out IR on colder days, which is a disadvantage of static window coatings currently in use.