PulseExploreJournal ClubDebatesTrendingResearchersJournals
Instagram
HomeExploreJournal ClubTrending
Synapse
⌘+K
Synapse
February 2, 2026Energy & environment materials2 citationsOpen Access

Thermochromic Radiative Cooling Coatings with Robust Superhydrophobicity for Energy‐Efficient Buildings

View Full Paper
ZLZiqi LiShenzhen UniversityABAkbar BashirShenzhen UniversityCTChak‐Yin TangHong Kong Polytechnic University

Key Points

  • The aim is to develop a multifunctional radiative cooling coating that is energy-efficient and durable.
  • Developed a thermochromic coating using microcapsules, hexagonal boron nitride, and glass microspheres in a polydimethylsiloxane matrix.
  • Assessed the optical properties and cooling performance under various temperature conditions.
  • Evaluated superhydrophobic properties and durability in different environmental conditions.
  • Coating showed a solar reflectance of 91.7% and mid-infrared emissivity of 94.3%.
  • Achieved an average sub-ambient cooling of 4.44 °C outdoors and a 6.7 °C reduction compared to commercial coatings indoors.
  • Exhibited robust superhydrophobicity with a contact angle greater than 150°.

Abstract

The rising global demand for energy‐efficient cooling highlights radiative cooling materials as a promising alternative to energy‐intensive air conditioning. However, most existing systems suffer from fixed optical properties, limited adaptability, and poor durability. This work presents a multifunctional, color‐adaptive radiative cooling coating that incorporates thermochromic microcapsules, hexagonal boron nitride, and hollow glass microspheres into a polydimethylsiloxane matrix via a scalable blending process. The coating exhibits a reversible thermochromic transition at ~45 °C, enabling dynamic spectral regulation that enhances solar reflection at elevated temperatures while suppressing overcooling at lower ones. Combined with broadband optical performance (solar reflectance of 91.7% and mid‐infrared emissivity of 94.3%), the coating achieves an average sub‐ambient cooling of 4.44 °C under outdoor conditions and a 6.7 °C reduction compared to commercial coatings in indoor simulation experiments. Beyond cooling efficiency, the micro/nano hierarchical surface imparts robust superhydrophobicity (contact angle >150°), self‐cleaning capability, and long‐term stability in corrosive, humid, and UV‐rich environments. By synergistically integrating adaptive optical regulation, high‐radiative cooling power, and durable surface protection, this work establishes a scalable strategy for next‐generation smart coatings, paving practical pathways toward energy‐saving buildings and sustainable thermal management technologies.

Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper

Cite This Study

Li et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6980fe13c1c9540dea80fde0https://doi.org/10.1002/eem2.70278
Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper