SARC (Solar-driven Adaptive Radiative Cooling) is an innovative technology created by scientists at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. It functions on the concept of passive radiative cooling, allowing a building's surface to release heat as infrared radiation. This mechanism effectively reduces the surface temperature without consuming energy.
Innovative Cooling Solution
The technology utilizes tiny carbon particles, known as carbon dots, to facilitate adaptive cooling for buildings. These dots absorb sunlight and then emit it as lower-energy light, enhancing efficiency in bright sunlight. Applying the coolant coating is straightforward, as it can be done using a paint roller. Furthermore, this coating can be produced in various colors to suit different aesthetic preferences.
Remarkable Temperature Reduction
Research published in the Chemical Engineering Journal highlights the impressive effectiveness of the SARC coating. A roof treated with SARC demonstrated a temperature decrease of 20°C when compared to a standard concrete roof. The temperature of the SARC coating remained significantly lower throughout the day, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, in contrast to an uncoated roof.
Energy and Environmental Benefits
In contrast to conventional building cooling methods, the SARC coating does not require electricity, which could greatly reduce energy usage in homes with air conditioning. Another benefit of the SARC coating is its eco-friendliness. The materials used are devoid of heavy metals, and the carbon dots are non-toxic and biocompatible. While the timeline for commercial availability remains uncertain, researchers are already developing an enhanced version that can not only cool buildings in the summer but also provide warmth during the winter.
