Development of Highly Selective Sun Control Coatings (HSSCC) via large-area magnetron sputtering for Greenhouse Facade Buildings (GHFB)

Modern buildings contribute significantly to global energy consumption, particularly through heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Greenhouse facade buildings (GHFBs), in particular, face challenges in optimizing daylighting, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency. To address these challenges, researchers develop highly selective sun control coatings (HSSCC) that reduce solar heat gain while maintaining visible light transmission and colour neutrality. This study presents the design and experimental development of HSSCC by using large-area magnetron sputtering (LAMS) on float glass substrate having the refractive index ∼1.52. Various transition metals and metalloids like silicon nitride, chromium, niobium, nickel chrome, and titanium are selected based on their optical properties (refractive indices ranging from 1.8 to 3.0). The coated samples undergo characterization for optical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical stability. Performance parameters are evaluated in accordance with ISO 9050, NFRC, and EN410 standards. The developed coatings demonstrate strong potential for applications in energy-efficient glazing, as well as in industrial, automotive, and architectural sectors. • High-selective solar control coatings (HSSCC) were developed using a closed-loop large-area magnetron sputtering process. • Optical thin-film modelling (CODE) was employed to design coating structures for energy-efficient greenhouse applications. • Uniform multilayer coatings were achieved on large float-glass substrates (2440 × 1220 mm). • Infrared-control functional materials were optimized to enhance solar selectivity. • The developed HSSCC demonstrated potential to improve thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption in architectural glazing.