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Scientists at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed an innovative cement-based paint that mimics the body’s natural cooling process through evaporation, offering a potential solution to combat rising temperatures in urban areas. Unlike conventional cooling paints that repel water, this new formulation is designed to store water within its porous structure and gradually release it, effectively cooling surfaces as the moisture evaporates.
The paint employs a triple-action cooling technology, integrating radiative cooling, evaporative cooling, and solar reflection. It reflects 88 to 92 percent of sunlight, even when wet, and is capable of emitting up to 95 percent of the heat it absorbs. The researchers enhanced its performance by incorporating nanoparticles for increased reflectivity and durability, along with polymers and salts to help maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
Real-world testing conducted over two years on three mini houses in Singapore demonstrated the new paint’s efficacy. One house was treated with conventional white paint, another with a commercially available cooling paint, while the third utilized the experimental formulation. The results indicated that the experimental paint retained its color and performance, while the others faded under intense sunlight. Maintaining a bright white appearance is crucial for optimizing reflectivity and cooling efficiency.
The new paint has shown to reduce energy consumption for air conditioning by 30 to 40 percent in the test homes. This is significant given that approximately 60 percent of building energy is used for cooling. If widely adopted, this cooling paint could drastically decrease electricity demand and help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without over-reliance on traditional air conditioning systems.
Furthermore, the paint’s potential benefits extend beyond individual residences. Urban areas frequently experience the urban heat island effect, where heat is trapped and radiated by concrete and buildings. This innovative solution could alleviate some of that heat by releasing it as invisible infrared radiation, thereby mitigating the immediate warming of the surrounding environment. The research highlights the urgency of finding sustainable cooling solutions, especially in cities like Singapore and other regions facing similar challenges due to climate change.
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