Case Study: SmartShield™ Window Film Retrofit — Shiyao Group (Shijiazhuang, China)
Scope: 4,000 m² south-facing façade | Solution: SmartShield™ Rare-Earth Window Film (Interior Application)
Note: SmartShield™ is the name used for this product in Australia.
Project Snapshot
- Objective: Reduce solar heat gain, cut HVAC load, and improve indoor comfort.
- Glass Area: 4,000 m² (south elevation).
- Climate Inputs: Local 2022 solar radiation, sunshine hours, and ambient temperature data were modelled for the site.
Measured Outcomes
- Annual electricity saved: 338,246 kWh (≈338,246 RMB at 1 RMB/kWh).
- CO₂ reduction: 337,231 kg per year (≈84 kg CO₂ saved per m²/year; ≈4.6 trees’ annual absorption per m²).
- Comfort improvement: Side-by-side room tests showed an average 5.0 °C cooler interior (10:00–15:00), with a peak difference of 6.4 °C.
Technology Used
SmartShield™ film leverages Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) in rare-earth 4f electron orbitals to selectively block solar IR/UV while maintaining high visible light transmission. Key specs:
- Visible Light Transmission (VLT): ≥70%
- IR Rejection: ≥95%
- UV Rejection: ≥99%
- Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER): ≥50%
- Service Life: >10 years
Unlike reflective Low-E coatings, SmartShield™ absorbs and dissipates unwanted energy, helping keep interiors cooler without darkening the glass.
Why It Matters
- Lower Operating Costs: Significant reduction in cooling energy consumption.
- Better Occupant Comfort: Noticeably cooler rooms during peak sun hours.
- Sustainability Impact: Large, quantifiable CO₂ reductions aligned with corporate ESG goals.
Implementation Notes
- South-facing façade analysed for solar exposure, sunshine duration, and local temperature thresholds for cooling demand.
- On-site A/B testing (adjacent rooms, same orientation and glazing) validated real-world comfort gains.
Results are specific to building orientation, climate, glazing build-up, and HVAC operation. Actual savings will vary by site.
