The development of ultra-white paint with the ability to reflect up to 97.9 percent of sunlight offers potential benefits for cooling airplanes, spacecraft, cars, and trains. This engineered paint, which is an improvement on an earlier formula, has the capacity to reduce reliance on air conditioning and mitigate the effects of climate change. The paint’s ultra-thin formula makes it suitable for coating vehicles, and it is significantly lighter compared to previous versions. By reflecting more heat than it retains, the paint cools surfaces without using electricity and contributes to cooling the Earth by sending heat to space. The researchers are currently discussing commercialization opportunities for the paint, which could have widespread adoption and contribute to energy savings and climate change mitigation efforts.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra-white paint reflects sunlight, reduces reliance on air conditioning | From reliance on air conditioning to passive cooling | Increased use of ultra-white paint for cooling purposes | Combatting climate change |
| New paint formula is lightweight and safe for coating vehicles | From paint too thick for vehicles to a thinner formula | Widespread use of lightweight paint on vehicles | Improved cooling methods |
| Paint reflects up to 97.9% of sunlight, cools surfaces by emitting heat | From less effective paints to highly reflective paint | Increased use of highly reflective paint for cooling | Energy efficiency and reducing global warming |
| New paint uses hexagonal boron nitride for a lighter weight and thinner application | From thick paint to a lighter and thinner version | Expanded applications in various industries | Commercial viability and climate benefits |