Urban landscapes around the world suffer from the so-called “urban heat island” effect. These concrete jungles absorb solar heat, leading to rising air temperatures, increased cooling energy consumption, and deteriorating living conditions. However, a team of scientists from the South China University of Technology has proposed a unique solution to this global problem by creating an innovative cooling cement. This material can actively reduce surface temperatures, helping cities become more resilient to extreme heat.
Radiative Cooling: How Does It Work?
Traditional building materials, such as regular concrete and cement, absorb up to 90% of solar radiation, causing them to heat up significantly. Cooling cement operates on a completely different principle. It works in two ways simultaneously. First, it effectively reflects sunlight, like a mirror. Second, and most importantly, it actively radiates thermal energy via infrared radiation into the outer space, where it is not absorbed by the atmosphere.
Thanks to this property, the material dissipates more heat than it absorbs, allowing it to maintain a temperature lower than the ambient air temperature. Tests have shown that using this cement can reduce indoor temperatures by 5-7°C, making it a key tool in combating elevated temperatures in cities.
Ecology and energy saving
This invention has enormous environmental and economic implications. Its primary benefit is energy savings. Reducing the need for air conditioning systems leads to:
- Reduced electricity consumption: This helps reduce the load on the power grid, especially during peak summer periods.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Less energy burned means less carbon dioxide emissions, which is a significant step in the fight against climate change.
- Passive Cooling: This passive cooling method operates without an external power source, making it ideal for use in any climate.
Wide application and prospects
The new cement can be used not only for roofs and walls of buildings but also for urban infrastructure, including roads and sidewalks. This will effectively combat the urban heat island effect throughout the city, as asphalt and concrete are among the main sources of heat absorption.
The developers note that the material is not as strong or durable as conventional cement, and its gray color makes it suitable for use in any architectural style. This technology opens up new possibilities for sustainable construction and is a clear example of how innovations in materials science can solve global problems.
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