'Smart' solar panels have fina been developed by researchers of Albert Ludwigs University, Freibi and Fraunhofer Institute for So Energy Systems, Lauenforde, bw in Germany. The material used - polymer blend of polypropyh oxide and a copolymer containi styrene and 2-hydroxyethyl met] crylate - allows the solar panels change from being light absorb to light reflectors when the pan get too hot (New Scientist, Vol I No 1998), With rising temperatu the two polymers which earl remain blended, separate out ii two distinct phases becomi opaque, ensuring light reflection.