A recent study conducted by a team of researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and Korea University has unlocked an innovative solution to cool sun-exposed building surfaces, particularly glass, in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. The researchers have developed a film consisting of three components – a perforated silver substrate, a Bragg mirror, and a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating – that allows surfaces to reflect solar heat and cool down without compromising visibility.
This new technology has the potential for mass production and can have significant applications in architecture and environmental sustainability. By optimizing daytime radiative cooling, the researchers have successfully lowered temperatures by 40 degrees Fahrenheit compared to traditional glass coatings. This advancement could help address rising global temperatures and mitigate the urban heat island effect by creating buildings that require less energy consumption for cooling.
While solutions like this can make a significant impact in cooling buildings and saving energy, the root cause of extreme weather events, such as heat waves, is the global reliance on dirty energy sources like oil and gas. Transitioning to clean energy sources like wind and solar power can play a crucial role in slowing down rising temperatures. In the meantime, technologies like the one developed by the research team can help pave the way for a more sustainable future.
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