Development of a Suite of Ultra-Dense WDM Components Using Novel Liquid Crystal Technology

65549 Buildings use 36 percent of the nation¿s energy resources. Houses with conventional ductwork systems in their attics suffer from energy loss because the systems were installed in very hot (or very cold) locations with little or no insulation to protect them, and often have excessive leaks and construction-caused defects. This project will develop a prefabricated whole-house array of thermoformed plastic ductwork for integration within roof trusses and under insulation layers. Phase I will (1) develop designs for ductwork arrays suitable for incorporation into a wide range of house plans; (2) select and specify the thermoplastic processes to be used to produce the arrays; and (3) verify the cost effectiveness of the concept Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The application of this technology would reconfigure the design and installation of home heating/cooling systems and dramatically improve performance and cost-effectiveness. In particular, the technology should reduce impurities entering the delivered air; improve system efficiency; and reduce construction costs