In low-e glass, is infrared able to reach the low-e coating?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the functionality of low-emissivity (low-e) coatings in double glazing concerning long wavelength infrared rays (LWIR, 8-15 µm). It is established that while low-e coatings are designed to reflect LWIR, the glass itself absorbs these wavelengths, which raises questions about the effectiveness of the coating in energy savings. The interaction between LWIR and glass is critical, as thermal imaging cameras demonstrate that glass does not allow LWIR to pass through, thereby impacting the performance of low-e coatings.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of low-emissivity (low-e) coatings
  • Knowledge of infrared radiation and its wavelength ranges
  • Familiarity with double glazing technology
  • Basic principles of thermal imaging
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of low-e coatings and their impact on energy efficiency
  • Explore the physics of infrared absorption in different materials
  • Investigate the design and performance of double glazed windows
  • Learn about thermal imaging technology and its applications
USEFUL FOR

Architects, energy efficiency consultants, building material manufacturers, and anyone involved in the design or evaluation of energy-efficient glazing solutions.

spareine
Messages
129
Reaction score
39
A low-e coating in double glazing should reflect long wavelength infrared rays (LWIR, 8-15 µm). However, glass absorbs LWIR. (For example, thermal imaging camera's cannot see through glass.) Are long wave infrared rays able to reach the low-e coating?
 
Let me rephrase the question by redrawing a diagram that is sometimes used to explain low-E double paned windows. The low-E coating at surface #3 supposedly saves energy by reflecting LWIR (long wavelength infrared). My question is: glass absorbs LW-IR. Doesn't that prevent the reflection of LW-IR by the coating?

doublepane2.png
 

Similar threads

Undergrad How is IR ink able to be seen with specialized filters?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Graduate Infrared thermometry remote sensing
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School Infrared Detectors & The 2nd Law of Thermodynamics
  • · Replies 152 ·
6
Replies
152
Views
12K
Graduate Diffraction of red LED light picture with spots
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Birefringence and Automotive Window Tinting
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
9K
Graduate Trying to understand what happens when EMR goes through matter (or doesn't)
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
Graduate About the missing Gamma Rays of Low Energy Fusion
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
8K
Optics Terms: Definitions & Help
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Some questions about Cosmic Microwave Background radiation
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
7K
What colors and attributes could alien flora & fauna have?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
6K