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

In summary, low-e glass is a type of energy-efficient glass that works by reflecting infrared and UV light while allowing visible light to pass through. It is able to keep heat inside during cold weather and outside during hot weather, resulting in lower energy costs. Some infrared light is still able to pass through, but the majority is reflected back, making it more energy-efficient. Low-e glass is safe to use for windows and has several benefits, including improved energy efficiency, reduced energy costs, and improved comfort. It also helps to block UV light, reduce outside noise, and make a building more soundproof.
  • #1
spareine
129
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?
 
  • #3
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
 

1. What is low-e glass and how does it work?

Low-e glass, or low emissivity glass, is a type of energy-efficient glass that is designed to reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through windows. It works by reflecting infrared and UV light, while allowing visible light to pass through.

2. How does infrared interact with low-e glass?

Infrared, or heat, is able to reach the low-e coating on the glass but is then reflected back towards its source. This helps to keep the heat inside during cold weather and outside during hot weather, resulting in lower energy costs for heating and cooling.

3. Can infrared still pass through low-e glass?

Yes, some infrared light is able to pass through low-e glass. The amount that is able to pass through depends on the type of low-e coating and the thickness of the glass. However, the majority of infrared is reflected back, making low-e glass more energy-efficient.

4. Is it safe to use low-e glass for windows?

Low-e glass is safe to use for windows and is commonly used in residential and commercial buildings. It does not emit any harmful substances and is designed to improve energy efficiency and comfort.

5. What are the benefits of using low-e glass?

Using low-e glass for windows has several benefits, including improved energy efficiency, reduced energy costs, and improved comfort by reducing heat transfer. It also helps to block UV light, which can fade furniture and flooring over time. Additionally, low-e glass can help to reduce outside noise and make a building more soundproof.

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
804
Replies
3
Views
368
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Thermodynamics
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
152
Views
5K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top