SunThru is a materials science company that develops high-transparency silica aerogel inserts for windows. Its technology allows double-pane windows to achieve triple-pane thermal performance without added weight or thickness.
SunThru LLC is a Schenectady, New York-based manufacturing company that specializes in the development of highly transparent silica aerogel monoliths designed for integration into insulated glazing units (IGUs). By incorporating these low-density aerogel inserts into standard double-pane window assemblies, the company enables window manufacturers to achieve thermal insulation performance comparable to triple-pane units without increasing the product's weight, thickness, or significantly reducing light transmission. SunThru's proprietary aerogel manufacturing process aims to overcome traditional scalability challenges, allowing for the production of large inserts that meet the demanding specifications of the modern window industry.
This technology provides significant value to residential and commercial building sectors by enhancing energy efficiency, which helps to reduce building heating and cooling costs and associated greenhouse gas emissions. The startup, which was founded in 2013 and has received support from the National Science Foundation, focuses on scaling its manufacturing capabilities to support customer testing and commercial adoption. By providing a cost-effective solution for high-performance windows, SunThru helps the building materials industry meet increasingly stringent energy standards, such as ENERGY STAR requirements, while maintaining aesthetic and structural standards.