A team of researchers from the Department of Chemistry at IIT Bhilai - Bhanendra Sahu, Sudipta Paul, Amul Jain and Dr. Sanjib Banerjee has unveiled a groundbreaking smart material that could redefine how we manage energy in buildings and secure sensitive information. This newly-developed polymer responds to its environment, making it ideal for smart windows that automatically adjust to changing temperatures, helping reduce reliance on air conditioning and lighting.

 

As concerns over climate change and energy efficiency grow, such adaptive technologies have the potential to become integral to the design of next-generation sustainable homes, offices, and vehicles. Beyond its energy-saving capabilities, this material also offers exciting possibilities in the field of data protection. Its ability to remain invisible under normal conditions and glow only under specific light makes it perfect for secure printing in confidential documents, anti-counterfeiting measures, and high-security labels. With its ease of manufacturing and versatility, this innovation holds promise for wide adoption across industries, including construction, transportation, defense, retail, and information security. This transformative work, supported by DSIR-CRTDH, Government of India, and IIT Bhilai.