Solar Control Surfaces with Angularly Selective Radiative Cooling

Case ID:
UA24-256
Invention:

This technology is a solar control coating designed for passive radiative cooling applications. It’s designed with maximal ultraviolet (UV) reflectivity, visible spectrum transparency, minimal heat gain, selective handling of infrared (IR) wavelengths, and angular emissivity optimized for vertical applications. This design is ideal for usage on vertical surfaces like windows, and it optimizes daytime and nighttime radiative cooling efficiency while maintaining natural lighting. It can also overcome limitations of radiative cooling in humid environments.

Background: 
Radiative cooling materials are traditionally optimized for horizontal applications and are typically not transparent to visible light. However, vertical surfaces make up a large percentage of buildings’ surface areas. Furthermore, windows tend to be the least thermally efficient parts of structures. By optimizing radiative cooling technologies for vertical and transparent applications, cooling efficiency can significantly increase. 

Applications: 

  • Solar control coating for passive radiative cooling used in:
    • Architecture
    • Construction
    • Residential buildings
    • Commercial buildings
    • Automotive


Advantages: 

  • Transparent to visible light to maintain natural lighting
  • Increased radiative cooling efficiency (both daytime and nighttime)
  • High UV reflectivity reduces overall solar heat load
  • Can be used on vertical surfaces
  • Can overcome limitations of radiative cooling in humid environments
  • Supports sustainability and green building initiatives
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Richard Weite
Senior Licensing Manager, College of Optical Sciences
The University of Arizona
RichardW@tla.arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Mohamed ElKabbash
Keywords: