Low-cost film cools with zero energy consumption

Problem

Increasing energy consumption and trends toward energy efficiency spurred research into radiative cooling technologies. Existing solutions suffer many drawbacks such as high cost of manufacturing, installation and integration into existing structures. In addition, decreased daytime efficiency requires expensive storage and space.

Solution

Researchers in the labs of Drs. Ronggui Yang and Xiaobo Yin developed a thin metamaterial film that uses passive radiative cooling to dissipate heat even under direct sunlight with zero energy consumption. The film is made out of glass microspheres, polymer and metals and can be scalably manufactured through roll-to-roll manufacturing.

Market Application

The thin metamaterial that can dissipate heat in direct sunlight has many potential applications such as solar cells, transportation, “Red-House”, residential and commercial buildings, a power plants. For example, the technology increases solar cell energy conversion efficiency by decreasing its working temperature. Applications in building envelope materials such as shingles, siding and windows can reduce residential and commercial electricity costs for the consumer.