Transparent heat-mirror films of TiO2/Ag/TiO2 for solar energy collection and radiation insulation

Abstract

Transparent heat-mirror films of TiO2/Ag/TiO2 on glass with a visible transmission of 84% (at 0.5 μm) and an infrared reflectivity of 98–99% (at 10 μm) have been fabricated by rf sputtering. Initial tests indicate that the films are thermally stable in air at 200°C and inert to water attack. Because of their excellent optical properties and apparent stability, these transparent heat-mirror films offer great promise for use in solar-thermal power conversion and as transparent thermal insulators.