Innovative Photon-Engineered Fluorescent Tri-Layer Polymeric Coatings for Sub-Ambient Colored Radiative Cooling

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Colored radiative cooling (CRC) materials offer sustainable thermal management but face challenges with reduced efficiency and performance degradation in dusty environments.
• Developing self-cleaning CRC materials with high cooling performance and vibrant colors remains a significant challenge in materials science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present photon-engineered fluorescent tri-layer polymeric coatings (PFTPCs) for high-performance colored radiative cooling.
• To demonstrate the effectiveness of Purcell-enhanced fluorescence and photonic structures in achieving high solar reflectance and infrared emissivity.
• To evaluate the cooling capacity, energy-saving potential, and durability of the developed PFTPCs.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of photon-engineered fluorescent tri-layer polymeric coatings (PFTPCs).
• Characterization of optical properties, including solar reflectance and long-wave infrared emissivity.
• Measurement of daytime sub-ambient cooling performance.
• Simulation of building energy savings across diverse climate zones.
• Assessment of superhydrophobic properties, anti-fouling capability, and durability.

Main Results:

• PFTPCs achieved high effective solar reflectance (94%-96.3%) and infrared emissivity (>96%).
• Daytime sub-ambient cooling of 5.4-7.2°C was achieved, outperforming commercial colored materials.
• Simulations indicated significant building energy savings potential.
• PFTPCs demonstrated excellent superhydrophobic, anti-fouling, and durable properties, resisting environmental degradation.

Conclusions:

• Photon-engineered fluorescent tri-layer polymeric coatings represent a breakthrough in colored radiative cooling technology.
• These materials offer a sustainable solution for thermal management with high cooling efficiency, vibrant colors, and self-cleaning properties.
• The research paves the way for the rational design of advanced fluorescence-assisted colored radiative cooling materials for energy conservation.