The research complex was designed and built to showcase
technologies developed by Dow Corning that contribute to achieving some of
the highest energy-efficiency standards in buildings. It acts as a showcase for
the extensive possibilities of energy-efficient architecture enabled by
silicones and silicon-based technology.
| Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) |
 | Dow Corning’s breakthrough super-thin vacuum
insulation panels (VIP) are integrated into the rain-screen cladding part of
the facade, providing five to 10 times higher insulating value than
conventional insulation materials and making it possible to create slim wall
constructions with high thermal resistance.
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• Download product
information
(PDF) |
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Structural Glazed Facade Technology |
 | Dow Corning’s structural glazed facade technology
allows use of large, modern glass units, enabling more natural daylight in the
building while improving energy efficiency and weather resistance.
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information
(PDF) |
| |
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Weatherproofing Silicone Sealants |
 | Dow Corning® brand weatherproofing silicone
sealants add airtightness to the buildings and help considerably reduce energy
losses.
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information
(PDF) |
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Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) |
 | Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), a set of PV
modules, are joined and secured using Dow Corning® brand sealants
in front of the windows. Integrated with structural building units, this
technology provides access to solar power in an aesthetically pleasing package,
functioning as both a building material and a solar energy converter. Silicone
adhesives and sealants provide weathering protection for BIPV panels, solar
modules and solar arrays.
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• Download product information
(PDF) |
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Triple Insulating Glass Units |
 |  Triple insulating glass units, sealed with a silicone secondary
sealant, are used to improve the energy efficiency of the structural glazing
facade.
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(PDF) |
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LED Lighting |
 | Energy-efficient light emitting diodes (LEDs) are used
in the office area of the SEED for highly efficient lighting. Silicones retain
their performance and reliability over time, maintaining light output and color
and resisting yellowing with age, compared to organic materials traditionally
used in lighting.
Learn more:
•
Dow Corning Lighting Solutions website
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Silicon Technology Centre |
 | The Silicon Technology Centre houses research
activities that aim to develop next-generation silicon-based technologies and
applications, many of which could be used to help improve energy efficiency in
construction, automotive, electronics and other areas.
For example, Dow Corning is actively exploring opportunities in the
dynamic window market, aiming to increase the energy efficiency of office
buildings.
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Other areas of development include:
• Lithium-ion battery technology that could help increase the autonomy of
electric vehicles
• Silicon-based materials that would enhance the efficiency of LED lamps and
luminaires
The state-of-the art laboratories also enable a broad range of fundamental
research activities focused on further improving the sustainability and
performance of silicon-based technologies. |