Breakthrough in Building Cooling Technology
Researchers from Polytechnic University have introduced a groundbreaking solar-powered coating designed to significantly reduce building temperatures. Unveiled on Monday, this innovative solution promises to cool building surfaces by up to 25 degrees Celsius and decrease indoor temperatures by two to three degrees.
Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly Solution
Vivien Lu, a faculty member from the university’s Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, explained that the coating harnesses carbon dots to convert solar energy into light energy, enhancing its cooling performance in direct sunlight. Unlike traditional passive radiative cooling materials, which do not adapt to changing weather conditions and can degrade over time, PolyU’s coating improves its performance with stronger solar radiance.
Safe and Sustainable
PolyU’s new invention stands out not only for its efficiency and adaptability but also for its environmental and biological safety. The coating poses no environmental risks and is biologically harmless, making it a sustainable option for modern urban development. Additionally, it boasts high durability, which contributes to its practicality in various applications.
Affordable Innovation
The estimated cost of this solar-powered coating is approximately HK$12 per square meter. However, Lu suggests that this price could decrease significantly with increased production and scalability. This makes the technology an affordable option for widespread use in residential and commercial buildings.
Upcoming Implementation
The first practical application of this innovative coating will be at a student hostel currently under construction in Kowloon Tong. This project will not only serve as a real-world test for the coating’s effectiveness but also demonstrate its potential to transform building management practices by reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort for occupants.
Potential Global Impact
As the world continues to seek solutions for energy efficiency and climate control in buildings, PolyU’s solar-powered coating could play a crucial role in shaping future sustainable development practices. This technology provides an example of how innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand, offering a blueprint for future developments in the field of energy engineering.
Source: news.rthk.hk
