The UAE’s Al Serkal Group announced that it has brought In’Flector window insulation panels to the Middle East, North Africa and Asia for the first time.

 

Originally developed by Nasa to reflect solar radiation from the Space Shuttle, In’Flector panels can halve energy costs in homes and offices and will help to support the push for “Green Buildings” in the UAE and wider Middle East.

 

According to a media statement issued by the Al Serkal Group, the region’s many glass-fronted buildings are prone to absorb solar heat and harmful UV rays, making it difficult to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. To overcome this, maintains the statement, buildings are excessively reliant on air-conditioning systems, which are expensive and energy-hungry, and floor-to-ceiling curtains and blinds, which block natural light.

 

The see-through In’Flector panels, which are constructed of aluminium, carbon and a UV layer, let light in and keep heat out by reflecting back up to 92 per cent of UV rays, 80 per cent of radiant heat, and 78 per cent of solar heat gain, providing a stable and comfortable environment alongside lower cooling and lighting costs.

 

In’Flector panels are particularly effective in the UAE’s urban environment. In a week-long trial carried out in conjunction with Dubal, In’Flector panels were able to reduce overall energy use in a test building by 41 per cent, claims the statement.

 

Once installed, In’Flector panels can deliver a full return on investment on average within 18 months. Additionally, they reduce cooling loads which, in turn, lessens the amount of air pollutants entering the conditioned space through the cooling systems, improving indoor air quality.