The effect of thermochromic coatings of VO 2 on the fire performance of windows

Summary The effect of thermochromic coatings of vanadium dioxide (VO 2 ) on the fire performance of windows was experimentally tested. Prototypes were subjected to radiant heat and the radiation transmitted through the specimens was measured as a function of time. The results indicate that windows coated with VO 2 can reduce radiative heat transfer from fires and thereby also reduce or prevent fire spread. The results clearly show that VO 2 coatings on BK7 substrates hinder approximately 30% of the transmission of radiation from fire sources when compared with the performance of uncoated windows. It is expected that VO 2 will not be solely implemented for the purpose of increasing fire performance of windows, but it will rather provide a secondary positive effect if such windows are realized for energy‐saving purposes.