Buildings often waste a lot of energy due to heat escaping through their walls and windows. A new solution is coming, and it’s surprisingly light and clear—like fireproof “bubble wrap.”
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have created a material called MOCHI, which stands for Mesoporous Optically Clear Heat Insulator. This remarkable silicon gel is nearly transparent, allowing you to hold a flame on it without getting burnt. It works by trapping heat in tiny air pockets, almost like an advanced form of insulation. You can see how well it performs in testing, as demonstrated in their recent studies.
MOCHI’s design holds promise for improving energy efficiency in buildings. According to a paper published in Science, a thin sheet of MOCHI could be applied to windows, reducing energy loss significantly. This innovative material could also find uses beyond buildings, including in lightweight clothing and even extraterrestrial habitats. Ivan Smalyukh, a physicist and senior author of the study, shared exciting potential applications with Gizmodo.
While it looks flat and clear, MOCHI contains tiny pores thinner than a human hair. These pores trap heat, and about 90% of the material is air, making it highly transparent. Unlike traditional insulation, which is often opaque and unattractive, MOCHI can blend seamlessly into windows. One experiment showed that applying MOCHI to a window could block around 95% of heat transfer.
Globally, buildings account for nearly 40% of energy consumption, and poor insulation amplifies this issue. Smalyukh noted that effective materials like MOCHI could help create comfortable indoor environments with minimal energy use. This could redefine the role of windows, giving them new functions beyond just allowing light in.
While the development of MOCHI is ongoing, researchers are optimistic. The materials used are affordable, which could facilitate market availability in the future. MOCHI might even evolve into solar panel technology, particularly useful in regions with limited sunlight.
As they refine this innovative product, both researchers and enthusiasts are enjoying the playful side of MOCHI. For instance, they’ve even used it to grill sausages, showcasing its unique properties in real-world applications.
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Energy Efficiency,material science
