Polymeric structures and uses thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein said layer comprising said polymeric material and said colorant is positioned as the top layer of said structure, article of manufacture comprising the same and uses thereof.

Description

[0001] POLYMERIC STRUCTURES AND USES THEREOF

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to polymeric structures and uses thereof.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] References considered to be relevant as background to the presently disclosed subject matter are listed below:

[0006] International application, publication No. W02023100186.

[0007] US patent application, publication No. US2016349416.

[0008] Acknowledgement of the above references herein is not to be inferred as meaning that these are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0009] BACKGROUND

[0010] International application, publication No. W02023100186 describes an apparatus for amplifying cooling through interaction with electromagnetic radiation for optical cooling of objects and / or object surfaces with essentially three layers, which are a bottom layer that is comprised of a single or multi layered material configured to emit IR radiation; a middle layer that is comprised of a single or multi layered material configured to respond in anti-Stokes fluorescence upon absorption of electromagnetic radiation; and a top layer that is comprised of a single or multi layered material configured to reflect selected spectral band and / or amplify selected spectral band of the electromagnetic radiation transmittable to the middle layer.

[0011] US patent application, publication No. US2016349416 describes retroreflective articles that include a layer of optical elements embedded in a bead bond layer. The optical elements include transparent microspheres, colored polymeric layer covering the transparent microspheres, and a reflective layer covering the colored polymeric layer. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0012] In accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides a multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein said layer comprising said polymeric material and said colorant is positioned at an uppermost layer of said structure.

[0013] In accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein being incorporated in a textile.

[0014] In accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein provided in paint.

[0015] In accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein for use as an insulation material.

[0016] In accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein for use in use in enhancing cooling of an object.

[0017] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides use of the multi-layered structure described herein in the preparation of an insulation material.

[0018] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides use of the multi-layered structure described herein in the preparation of a device for enhancing cooling of an object.

[0019] In accordance with some further aspect, the present disclosure provides an article of manufacture comprising the multi-layered structure described herein.

[0020] In accordance with yet some further aspect, the present disclosure provides a cooling apparatus comprising the multi-layered structure described herein.

[0021] In accordance with yet some further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for enhancing cooling of an object, the method comprising attaching a multi- layered structure to at least one surface of said object, wherein said multi-layered structure as described herein.

[0022] EMBODIMENTS

[0023] Some embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in the following numbered paragraph. The following description intends to add on the above general description and not limit it in any manner. 1. A composite material comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material comprising the at least one colorant is the top layer of the composite material.

[0024] 2. A multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is positioned as the top layer of the structure.

[0025] 3. A structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein one of the layers comprises or more polymeric materials and one or more colorants and wherein one other layer comprises at least one reflective layer, wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is the uppermost layer the structure.

[0026] 4. An article of manufacture comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material comprising the at least one colorant is the top layer of the composite material.

[0027] 5. An article of manufacture comprising a multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is positioned as the top layer of the structure.

[0028] 6. A cooling apparatus comprising the multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is positioned as the top layer of the structure. 7. A method for enhancing cooling of an object, the method comprising attaching a multi-layered structure to at least one surface of the object, wherein the multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is positioned as the top layer of the structure.

[0029] 8. An object comprising a multi-layered structure attached to at least one surface of the object, wherein the multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant is positioned as the top layer of the structure.

[0030] 9. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric layer is or comprises a polymeric material.

[0031] 10. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one colorant is at least partially embedded within the polymeric material.

[0032] 11. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one colorant is positioned on top of the at least one polymeric material.

[0033] 12. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the layers are organized in a stacked configuration.

[0034] 13. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant forms a continuous layer. 14. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, having a thermal resistance of between about 0.0008 m2K / W and about 100 m2K / W.

[0035] 15. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, having a thermal resistance of between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.007 m2K / W.

[0036] 16. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, having a thickness of between about 0.15mm and about 3mm.

[0037] 17. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, having a thickness of between about 0.35mm and about 1mm.

[0038] 18. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, having solar absorption of at least about 20 W / m2.

[0039] 19. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the colorant in the top layer is selected to minimally absorb solar radiation for any color.

[0040] 20. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the colorant in the top layer is transparent at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns.

[0041] 21. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the colorant is characterized by having a transparency of at least 60% in wavelength of between about 8 microns and about 15 microns.

[0042] 22. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the colorant is characterized by having a transparency of at least 80% in wavelength of between about 8 microns and about 15 microns.

[0043] 23. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the colorant is at least one of nano pigment, micro- pigment, plasmonic nanoparticle, fluorescence material or any combination thereof.

[0044] 24. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is at least one or more of or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3), PbS, Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue , Cobalt green bluish A (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris- synthetic (CU(CH3COO)2[CU(OH)2]32H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide), spinel yellow (NiTiCh). Caput Mortuum reddish(Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4) and iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, Fe2O3).

[0045] 25. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the plasmonic nanoparticle is or comprises at least one of silver, gold, aluminum, copper, nickel or any combination thereof.

[0046] 26. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises a porous polymer, an encasing polymer or any combination thereof.

[0047] 27. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises a polymer that is transparent at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns.

[0048] 28. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material in said top layer is or comprises a polymer that is transparent at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns.

[0049] 29. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises one or more of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), polypropylene copolymer (CPP), polypropylene homopolymer (HPP), random polypropylene copolymer (RPP), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polyethylene (PE), polymethylpentene (PMP), polypropylene (PP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), poly ether sulfone (PES), polyurethane (PU), PDMS 10 (Poly dimethylsiloxane), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and any mixture or derivative thereof.

[0050] 30. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises PU and / or PVB.

[0051] 31. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises PVDF and / or PVB.

[0052] 32. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises PVC and / or PVB.

[0053] 33. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the polymeric material is or comprises PU and / or PVB. 34. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the reflective material is or comprises a metal.

[0054] 35. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the metal is or comprises aluminum or silver.

[0055] 36. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic; SiN, SiO2, diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0056] 37. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, comprising one or more infrared radiation layers.

[0057] 38. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant and the layer comprising a reflective material are positioned at opposite sides with respective to the infrared radiation layer.

[0058] 39. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one layer comprising the reflective material is positioned in close proximity to a surface of an object.

[0059] 40. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the at least one layer comprising the reflective material is attached to at least one surface of an object.

[0060] 41. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the object is a transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof. 42. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, incorporated in a textile.

[0061] 43. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, provided in paint.

[0062] 44. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, for use as an insulation material.

[0063] 45. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, for use in use in enhancing cooling of an object.

[0064] 46. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the object comprises a surface exposed to sunlight.

[0065] 47. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the object is an exterior structure.

[0066] 48. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the object is one or more of transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof.

[0067] 49. Use of the composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, of any one of the preceding Embodiments, in the preparation of an insulation material.

[0068] 50. Use of the composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, of any one of the preceding Embodiments, in the preparation of an apparatus for enhancing cooling of an object.

[0069] 51. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the multi-layered structure is attached to at least one surface of the article of manufacture.

[0070] 52. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, configured to enhance cooling of an object.

[0071] 53. The composite material, the multi-layered structure, the structure, the article of manufacture, the cooling apparatus, the method and / or the object of any one of the preceding Embodiments, configured to reduce solar absorption in an object.

[0072] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0074] Figure 1 a shows Ultraviolet-Visible-Near Infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) transmission of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) comprising different pigments.

[0075] Figure 2 shows Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) transmission of PTFE comprising different pigments.

[0076] Figure 3 is an example of thermal resistivity measurements.

[0077] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a multi-layered structure in accordance with some embodiments.

[0078] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a multi-layered structure in accordance with some embodiments.

[0079] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a multi-layered structure in accordance with some embodiments.

[0080] Figures. 7A and 7B are images of Cr2O3green applied over a product of the present disclosure (Figure 7A), and commercial green applied directly onto metal (Figure 7B). Figure 8 is a graphs showing temperature measurements taken outdoors over time of Cr2O3green over product of the present disclosure and commercial green applied directly on metal compared to ambient temperature.

[0081] Figure 9 is a graph showing reflectance spectra of Cr2O3green over an exemplary product described herein in accordance with some embodiments and commercial green on applied directly on metal.

[0082] Figure 10 is a chromaticity diagram of Cr2O3green over an exemplary product described herein in accordance with some embodiments and commercial green on applied directly on metal.

[0083] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0084] The present disclosure is based on the development of a colored multi-layered structure (also referred herein at times as a composite material) that provides an insulation layer for minimize heating and / or provides / enhances cooling a variety of objects.

[0085] The multi-layered structure may be used per se or adhered to (attached to) or incorporated into an object (an article of manufacture) to allow coloring while minimizing heat generated by the colorant and / or generating passive cooling.

[0086] As demonstrated in the Examples below and illustrated in Figure 8, which depicts an example structure, the temperature measured in a green-colored structure of the present disclosure was lower than that measured in green-colored metal. This suggests that the colored structure of the present invention exhibits better thermal insulation or lower thermal conductivity compared to a reference-colored metal, as indicated by its lower measured temperature under similar conditions.

[0087] Hence, in accordance with some aspects, the present disclosure provides a multi- layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a carrier material and at least one other layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises a carrier material comprises at least one colorant.

[0088] The multi-layered structure as used refers to a material having a layered structure comprising multiple layers, with each layer comprising a same or a different material. The layers may be arranged in a specific order or sequence to achieve desired structural or functional characteristics as further described herein below. For example, the layers may comprise one or more spectrally selective layers that selectively absorbs solar light at specific wavelengths (for example to give required color) while allowing other wavelengths to pass through and / or be reflected as well as a reflective layer that is configured to reflect the solar light and / or to emit infrared radiation.

[0089] The multiple layers may be arranged in various configurations.

[0090] In some examples, the multiple layers are arranged in a stacked configuration. The term "stack configuration" typically refers to an arrangement of two or more layers such that one layer is placed on top of another. In the context of the present disclosure, the arrangement may be vertical or horizontal. Further, in the context of the present disclosure, each layer may vary in size, shape, or composition depending on the specific context and purpose of the stack as further described herein.

[0091] The multi-layered structure may comprise one or more layers comprising a carrier material wherein at least one of these carrier material layers comprises one or more colorants. In other words, the multi-layered structure may comprise more than one layer comprising a carrier material and a colorant. As described herein below, the carrier material may be a polymeric material.

[0092] As described herein, the arrangement of the multiple layers within the multi- layered structure is such that one of the layers that comprise the polymeric material and the colorant is the upmost layer. In other words, the top layer of the multi-layered structure, i.e. the layer that is exposed to the environment (also referred as the uppermost layer), comprises a carrier material and at least one colorant.

[0093] Hence, in accordance with some aspects, it is provided a multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein a layer that is exposed to the environment comprises at least one polymeric material and at least one colorant. Its should be understood that the top layer of the multi-layered structure comprises one or more polymeric material and one or more colorants. The color of the multi-layered structure is primarily determined by the colorant(s) present in the top layer.

[0094] As described herein, the multi-layered structure as described herein may comprises one or more additional layers, including one or more layers comprising a reflective material. Hence, in accordance with some aspects, it is provided a multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein the layer comprising a polymeric material and a colorant is positioned at an uppermost layer of the structure.

[0095] As used herein the term “uppermost layer” of the multi-layered structure should be understood as the layer positioned at the exterior surface of the structure, configured to face and optionally interact with the surrounding environment during use. The uppermost layer is referred herein at times as the top layer.

[0096] In some examples, the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material with the at least one colorant form the most top layer of the multi-layered structure. In some examples, the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material comprising the at least one colorant is the top layer of the layer(s) that comprises a polymeric material.

[0097] In some examples, the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material comprising the at least one colorant (either embedded within or coated onto) is exposed to the environment.

[0098] It should be noted that the polymeric material that is in contact with the colorant as described herein (i.e the polymeric material in the top layer, the uppermost layer) is characterized by being a transparent polymer at a wavelength of between about 8 microns and about 15 microns or reflecting polymer.

[0099] In other words, the polymeric material present in the top layer with the colorant is characterized by being a transparent polymer at a wavelength of between about 8 microns and about 15 microns or reflecting polymer. In other words, the polymer present in the top layer with the colorant is not characterized by absorbing solar radiation.

[0100] In accordance with the present disclosure, the colorant in the top layer is selected to minimally absorb solar radiation for any color.

[0101] In some examples, the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material and the at least one colorant is a top layer of the material.

[0102] The layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant may be a continuous layer. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises a continuous uppermost layer comprising at least one polymeric material and at least one colorant. It should be noted that this layer may uniformly distributed across the external surface of the multi- layered structure.

[0103] The colorant may be either applied on the polymeric material and / or embedded (at least partially embedded) within a polymeric material.

[0104] In some examples, the at least one colorant is at least partially embedded within the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material.

[0105] In some examples, the at least one colorant is at least partially embedded within a polymeric material.

[0106] In this context, it is to be understood that "at least partially embedded in the polymeric material" means that a portion of the colorant is exposed out of the polymeric material, but yet, the colorant is stably entrapped in the material.

[0107] The entrapment or embedment, which may be a physical (mechanical) entrapment of the colorant in the polymer by any method known in the art. For example, entrapment of the colorant in the polymer may be by one or more of solution mixing, melt blending, in situ polymerization, sol-gel process.

[0108] In some examples, the at least one colorant is at least partially coated on a surface of at least one layer comprising the polymeric material. In some examples, the at least one colorant is positioned on top of the at least one layer comprising the polymeric material.

[0109] The coating of the colorant on the layer comprising the polymeric material, i.e. on the polymer surface may be by any method known in the art. For example, coating of the colorant may be by one or more of dip coating, spray coating, electrostatic deposition, chemical vapor deposition, cavitation enhanced dip coating or spin coating.

[0110] The multi-layered structure may comprise one or more layers.

[0111] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises one or more layers comprising a polymeric material. It should be noted that the one or more additional layers comprising polymeric material may be free of a colorant. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises an infrared radiation layer. The term infrared radiation layer as used herein refers to a specialized layer in a structure designed to interact with infrared (IR) radiation. The interaction may be either by reflect, absorb, or emit infrared radiation, depending on its intended function. In some examples, the infrared radiation layer emits thermal radiation at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns. In some examples, the infrared radiation layer is characterized by an emissivity of at least about 0.6. In some examples, the infrared radiation layer emits thermal radiation at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns and is characterized by an emissivity of at least about 0.6. In some examples, the infrared radiation layer emits thermal radiation at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns and is characterized by an emissivity of about 0.6, at times about 0.8, at times about 0.9.

[0112] In some examples, the infrared radiation layer may comprise a polymeric material and one or more compounds that may interact with IR radiation. In some examples, the infrared radiation layer may comprise a polymeric material and one or more of a metal, a metal oxide, ceramics.

[0113] In some examples, the layer comprising the polymeric material and the colorant and the layer comprising a reflective material are positioned at opposite sides with respective to the infrared radiation layer. In some examples, the layer comprising the reflective material is an inner layer.

[0114] As described herein, the multi-layered structure may be used for minimizing heat, for example, by absorbing minimal solar radiation by coloring agents, and / or for cooling. The applicability of the multi-layered structure for such purposes can be determined by the absorption spectra in the solar (0.2-2.5microns) and thermal (5-50 microns) ranges of the colorant, and by the thermal conductivity and / or thermal resistance of the multi- layered structure, as shown in the Examples below.

[0115] Particularly, the results indicate that the structure described herein, comprising a polymeric material and a colorant in the top layer, provides superior thermal performance by reducing the temperature during daylight hours compared to a color directly applied on a substate. The substate may be a metal. This unexpected reduction highlights the potential of the described structure for applications requiring thermal regulation. It should be noted that the differences in temperature are determined by comparing products with visually similar colors or matching color codes, regardless of the specific colorant used. For example, this comparison is illustrated in Example 3 described herein below.

[0116] Without being bound by theory, it is suggested that the temperature reduction observed in the described structure, compared to a color applied directly on metal, may depend on the color of the colorant material. Light colors may result in a significant temperature decrease, potentially up to 40°C, whereas darker colors may achieve a more modest reduction of around 4°C.

[0117] The term light color refers to a color (visual characterization) with a high luminance or brightness level, meaning it reflects more light (sunlight) and absorbs less leading to lower heat absorption. In some examples, light color is one or more of white, beige, light gray, pastel yellow, light pink, mint green.

[0118] The term dark color refers to a color (visual characterization) with low luminance or brightness, meaning it absorbs more light and reflects less, leading to higher heat absorption. In some examples, dark color is one or more of black, dark brown, navy blue, dark green, seep purple.

[0119] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 2°C, at times at least about 3°C, at times at least about 4°C, at times at least about 5°C, at times at least about 6°C, at times at least about 7°C, at times at least about 8°C, at times at least about 9°C, at times at least about 10°C, at times at least about 11°C, at times at least about 12°C, at times at least about 13°C, at times at least about 14°C, at times at least about 15°C, at times at least about 16°C, at times at least about 17°C, at times at least about 18°C, at times at least about 19°C, at times at least about 20°C, at times at least about 22°C, at times at least about 25°C as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate. In some examples, the substate is a metal. It should be noted that the comparison is conducted between visually similar colors or matching color codes, irrespective of whether the same colorant is used.

[0120] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 7°C, at times at least about 8°C, at times at least about 9°C, at times at least about 10°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0121] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at most about 40°C, at times at most about 35°C, at times at most about 30°C, at times at most about 25°C, at times at most about 20°C, at times at most about 15°C, at times at most about 10°C as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0122] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 2°C to about 40°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0123] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 4°C to about 30°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0124] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 7°C to about 25°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0125] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 7°C to about 20°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0126] In some embodiments, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a temperature decrease of at least about 7°C to about 10°C, as compared to the temperature of a visually similar color or matching color code directly applied to a substrate.

[0127] The multi-layered structure may be characterized by various parameters, including, thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, thickness etc.

[0128] Thermal conductivity refers to the ability to conduct heat, i.e. how well a substance / material can transmit thermal energy through conduction. Specifically, thermal conductivity represents the amount of heat (in watts) that can flow through a unit area (in square meters) of the material, per unit temperature difference (in kelvins) across the material for a certain thickness of this material (meters). Thermal conductivity may be determined (measured) by various methods known in the art.

[0129] In some examples, thermal conductivity is measured by Guarded Hot Plate Method; ASTM C177: "Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Guarded Hot Plate Apparatus" and / or ISO 8302: Equivalent international standard.

[0130] In some examples, thermal conductivity is measured by heat flow meter method (ASTM C518, ISO 8301).

[0131] In some examples, thermal conductivity is measured by transient plane source method (ISO 22007-2).

[0132] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of at least about 0.00lW / mK, at times at least about 0.003W / mK, at times at least about 0.005W / mK, at times at least about 0.007W / mK, at times at least about O.OlW / mK, at times at least about 0.015W / mK, at times at times at least about 0.02 W / mK, at times at least about 0.04 W / mK, at times at least about 0.06 W / mK, at times at least about 0.07 W / mK, at times at least about 0.08 W / mK, at times at least about 0.1 W / mK, at times at least about 0.15 W / mK, at times at least about 0.2 W / mK, at times at least about 0.25 W / mK.

[0133] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of at most about 0.3 W / mK, at times at most about 0.15 W / mK.

[0134] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of about 0.00lW / mK, at times about 0.003W / mK, at times about 0.005W / mK, at times about 0.007W / mK, at times about 0.0lW / mK, at times about 0.015W / mK, at times about 0.02 W / mK, at times about 0.04 W / mK, at times about 0.06 W / mK, at times about 0.075 W / mK, at times about 0.08 W / mK at times about 0.1 W / mK, at times about 0.15 W / mK, at times about 0.2 W / mK, at times about 0.25 W / mK.

[0135] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of about 0.06 W / mK, at times about 0.075 W / mK, at times about 0.08 W / mK at times about 0.1 W / mK.

[0136] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of between about 0.00lW / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.003W / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.005W / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.007W / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.01 W / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.02 W / mK and about 0.3 W / mK, at times between about 0.02 W / mK and about 0.25 W / mK, at times between about 0.03 W / mK and about 0.2 W / mK, at times between about 0.04W / mK and about 0.1 W / mK, at times between about 0.06W / mK and about 0.09 W / mK.

[0137] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of between about 0.04W / mK and about 0.1 W / mK.

[0138] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal conductivity of between about 0.06W / mK and about 0.09 W / mK.

[0139] Thermal resistance refers to ability of the material to resist the flow of heat (thermal energy) and is a measure of how effectively a material can act as an insulator, thereby reducing the rate at which heat transfers through it..

[0140] Several factors are known to affect thermal resistance of a material including it’s thermal conductivity, thickness and surface area.

[0141] Thermal resistance may be determined (measured) by various methods known in the art. In some examples, thermal resistance is measured by Guarded Hot Plate Method; ASTM C177: "Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Guarded Hot Plate Apparatus" and / or ISO 8302: Equivalent international standard.

[0142] In Guarded Hot Plate method, a sample is placed between a heated plate and a cooled plate, ensuring a steady-state heat flow through the material. A surrounding guard system minimizes lateral heat losses, ensuring that heat transfer occurs primarily in the intended direction. By accurately measuring the temperature difference and the heat flow, the thermal conductivity of the sample can be precisely determined.

[0143] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of at least about 0.0006 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.0008 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.001 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.003 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.005 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.008 m2K / W, at times at times at least about 0.01 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.05 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.1 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.5 m2K / W, at times at least about 1 m2K / W, at times at least about 1.5 m2K / W, at times at least about 2 m2K / W, at times at least about 2.5 m2K / W, at times at least about 3 m2K / W, at times at least about 3.5 m2K / W, at times at least about 4 m2K / W, at times at least about 4.5 m2K / W, at times at least about 5 m2K / W, at times at least about 7 m2K / W, at times at least about 10 m2K / W, at times at least about 12 m2K / W, at times at least about 15 m2K / W, at times at least about 17m2K / W, at times at least about 20 m2K / W, at times at least about 30 m2K / W, at times at least about 40 m2K / W, at times at least about 50 m2K / W, at times at least about 60 m2K / W, at times at least about 70 m2K / W, at times at least about 90 m2K / W.

[0144] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of at least about 0.0006 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.0008 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.001 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.003 m2K / W, at times at least about 0.005 m2K / W.

[0145] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of about 0.0008 m2K / W, at times about 0.001 m2K / W, at times about 0.002 m2K / W, at times about 0.003 m2K / W, at times about 0.0035 m2K / W, at times about 0.004 m2K / W, at times about 0.0045 m2K / W, at times about 0.005 m2K / W, at times about 0.0055 m2K / W, at times about 0.006 m2K / W, at times about 0.01 m2K / W at times about 0.1 m2K / W, at times about 10 m2K / W, at times about 50 m2K / W, at times about 100 m2K / W.

[0146] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of about 0.003 m2K / W, at times about 0.0035 m2K / W, at times about 0.004 m2K / W, at times about 0.0045 m2K / W, at times about 0.005 m2K / W, at times about 0.0055 m2K / W, at times about 0.006 m2K / W, at times about 0.0065 m2K / W,

[0147] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance value of at most about 100 m2K / W, at times at most about 50 m2K / W.

[0148] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of between about 0.0008 m2K / W and about 100 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 100 m2K / W, at times between about 0.003 m2K / W and about 100 m2K / W, at times between about 0.005 m2K / W and about 80 m2K / W, at times between about 0.008 m2K / W and about 80 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 50 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 40 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 30 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 20 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 10 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 5 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 1 m2K / W, at times between about 0.001 m2K / W and about 0.5 m2K / W, at times between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.1 m2K / W, at times between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.05 m2K / W, at times between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.01 m2K / W, at times between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.007 m2K / W.

[0149] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having thermal resistance of between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.01 m2K / W, at times between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.007 m2K / W.

[0150] The multi-layered structure is characterized by specific dimensions, including length, width, and thickness. The thickness is defined as the measurement from the innermost layer (the layer in close proximity to or intended to be in close proximity to an object) to the top layer, which, as described herein, comprises at least one polymeric material and at least one colorant.

[0151] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a thickness of at least about 0.1mm, at times at least about 0.2mm, at times at least about 0.3mm, at times at least about 0.5mm, at times at least 0.7mm, at times at least about 1mm, at times at least about 1.2mm, at times at least about 1.5mm, at times at least about 1.75mm, at times at least about 2mm.

[0152] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a thickness of about 0.2mm, at times about 0.3mm, at times about 0.5mm, at times about 0.7mm, at times about 1mm, at times about 1.2mm, at times about 1.5mm, at times about 1.75mm, at times about 2mm.

[0153] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a thickness of between about 0.15mm and about 3mm, at times between about 0.2mm and about 3mm, at times between about 0.35mm and about 3mm, at times between about 0.35mm and about 2mm, at times between about 0.35mm and about 1mm.

[0154] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a thickness of between about 0.4mm and about 0.8mm.

[0155] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by a thickness of between about 0.4mm and about 0.5mm. The multi-layered structure is characterized by a solar absorption allowing absorption low amount of solar energy. This is suitable in order for the multi-layered structure to remain cool and enhance cooling of objects to which the multi-layered structure may be attached to and / or incorporated in.

[0156] The term solar absorption as used herein refers to ability of a material or surface to absorb solar radiation and convert it into heat energy, quantified by the solar absorptance coefficient, which represents the fraction of incident solar energy absorbed by the material.

[0157] As can be seen in Example 3, a green multi-layered structure was characterized by a significantly low solar absorption compared to a green colored metal, indicating that the multi-layered structure reflects or transmits most of the sunlight and absorbs only a small amount of the solar energy.

[0158] Solar absorption may be determined by any method known in the art. For example as described in Example 3 or any other method known in the art. Known methods include ASTM E903. ASTM E903-12 is a standard method developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to determine the solar absorption, reflectance, and transmittance of materials using integrating spheres.

[0159] Solar absorption rate measured the amount of solar energy absorbed by a material, surface, or system over a given area and excludes energy that is reflected or transmitted and only accounts for the portion of incident solar radiation that is absorbed.

[0160] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having a solar absorption of at least about 20 W / m2, at times at least about 30 W / m2, at times at least about 40 W / m2, at times at least about 50 W / m2, at times at least about 60 W / m2, at times at least about 70 W / m2, at times at least about 80 W / m2, at times at least about 90 W / m2, at times at least about 100 W / m2, at times at least about 120 W / m2, at times at least about 150 W / m2, at times at least about 170 W / m2, at times at least about 200 W / m2, at times at least about 220 W / m2, at times at least about 250 W / m2, at times at least about 270 W / m2, at times at least about 300 W / m2, at times at least about 320 W / m2, at times at least about 350 W / m2, at times at least about 370 W / m2, at times at least about 400 W / m2, at times at least about 430 W / m2, at times at least about 450 W / m2, at times at least about 470 W / m2, at times at least about 500 W / m2, at times at least about 520 W / m2. In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having a solar absorption of about 20 W / m2, at times about 30 W / m2, at times about 40 W / m2, at times about 50 W / m2, at times about 60 W / m2, at times about 70 W / m2, at times a about 80 W / m2, at times about 90 W / m2, at times about 100 W / m2, at times about 120 W / m2, at times about 150 W / m2, at times about 170 W / m2, at times about 200 W / m2, at times about 220 W / m2, at times about 250 W / m2, at times about 270 W / m2, at times about 300 W / m2, at times about 320 W / m2, at times about 350 W / m2, at times about 370 W / m2, at times about 400 W / m2, at times about 430 W / m2, at times about 450 W / m2, at times about 470 W / m2, at times about 500 W / m2, at times about 511 W / m2, at times about 520 W / m2, at times about 550 W / m2, at times about 600 W / m2, at times about 620 W / m2, at times about 650 W / m2, at times about 670 W / m2, at times about 700 W / m2, at times about 720 W / m2, at times about 750 W / m2, at times about 770 W / m2, at times about 800 W / m2, at times about 820 W / m2, at times about 850 W / m2'

[0161] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having a solar absorption of between about 20 W / m2and about 1000 W / m2, at times about 40 W / m2and about 900 W / m2, at times about 80 W / m2and about 900 W / m2, at times about 100 W / m2and about 800 W / m2, at times about 150 W / m2and about 700 W / m2, at times about 200 W / m2and about 600 W / m2, at times about 300 W / m2and about 600 W / m2, at times about 400 W / m2and about 600 W / m2'

[0162] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is characterized by having a solar absorption that is lower than the solar absorption measured for a color directly applied on a substate. The substate may be a metal.

[0163] It should be noted that the differences in solar absorption are determined by comparing products with visually similar colors or matching color codes, regardless of the specific colorant used.

[0164] The term reduction or decrease as referred herein relate to reduction in the solar absorption of the object by any one of about 1% to 99.9%, specifically, about 1% to about 5%, about 5% to 10%, about 10% to 15%, about 15% to 20%, about 20% to 25%, about 25% to 30%, about 30% to 35%, about 35% to 40%, about 40% to 45%, about 45% to 50%, about 50% to 55%, about 55% to 60%, about 60% to 65%, about 65% to 70%, about 75% to 80%, about 80% to 85% about 85% to 90%, about 90% to 95%, about 95% to 99%, or about 99% to 99.9%, 100% or more as compared to the solar absorption of an object having a similar color attached directly to a substate metal. In addition, the reduction or decrease as referred herein relate to reduction in the solar absorption of the object by any one of at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 11%, at least 12%, at least 13%, at least 14%, at least 15%, at least 16%, at least 17%, at least 18%, at least 19%, at least 20%, at least 21%, at least 22%, at least 23%, at least 24%, at least 25%, at least 26%, at least 27%, at least 28%, at least 29%, at least 30%, at least 31%, at least 32%, at least 33%, at least 34%, at least 35%, at least 36%, at least 37%, at least 38%, at least 39%, at least 40%, at least 41%, at least 42%, at least 43%, at least 44%, at least 45%, at least 46%, at least 47%, at least 48%, at least 49%, at least 50%, at least 51%, at least 52%, at least 53%, at least 54%, at least 55%, at least 56%, at least 57%, at least 58%, at least 59%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or more as compared to the solar absorption of an object having a similar color attached directly to a substate metal.

[0165] As described herein and shown in the examples below, the multi-layered structure comprises one or more colorants.

[0166] The term colorant as used herein encompasses a pigment or a dye. The term dye typically refers to a soluble colorant, whereas the term pigment typically refers to an insoluble colorant and may be suspended in a medium or binder and provide a color through reflection and absorption of light.

[0167] In accordance with the present disclosure, the colorant is selected such that is characterized by having a high transparency in wavelength of between about 8 microns and about 15 microns. As can be seen in Figure 2, the exemplified colorants are characterized by a transparency of at least 80%.

[0168] In some examples, the at least one colorant is or comprises at least one pigment. As shown in the Examples below, various pigments may be applicable provided that they have below 20% absorption levels in the atmospheric window 8-15 micrometer when embedded in a polymeric material and above 80% average of transmission in the atmospheric window 8-15micrometer. Without being bound by theory, it was suggested that the at least one layer comprising the carrier material comprising the at least one colorant absorbs light. In some examples, the at least one colorant is at least one of nano pigment, micro- pigment, plasmonic nanoparticle, fluorescence material or any combination thereof.

[0169] The term “nano pigment” refers to a pigment that was engineered at the nanoscale. In some examples, the nano pigment has an average particle size between about Inm to 100 nm.

[0170] The term “micro-pigment” as used herein refers to a pigment having an average particle size of several microns.

[0171] The nano pigment or micro-pigment as used herein encompasses both an organic material and an inorganic material.

[0172] An inorganic nano-pigment or micro-pigment may include materials like metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide or zinc oxide), metal nanoparticles, all having a particle size in the nanometer range.

[0173] An organic nano-pigment or micro-pigment may be composed of organic compounds that are engineered or processed to have nanoscale dimensions.

[0174] The present disclosure is not limited to specific pigments.

[0175] In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is an inorganic pigment.

[0176] In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises at least one or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3), Lead sulfide (PbS), Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris- synthetic (CU(CH3COO)2.[CU(OH)2]3 -2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide, spinel yellow (NiTiO3). Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4), iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, Fe2O3) or a combination thereof.

[0177] In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises bismuth oxide. In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Lead sulfide (PbS). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Verdigris-synthetic (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3 2H2O). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide. In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises spinel yellow (NiTiOa). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Cinnabar (HgS). In some examples, the at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is or comprises Mars Black (FeO, Fe2O3).

[0178] In some examples, the at least one colorant is or comprises a plasmonic nanoparticle. The term plasmonic nanoparticle refers to a material that is capable of supporting localized surface and / or bulk plasmon resonances. In some examples, the plasmonic nanoparticle has an average particle size between about Inm to 100 nm. In some examples, the plasmonic nanoparticle is or comprise a metal. In some examples, the plasmonic nanoparticle is or comprises at least one of silver, gold, aluminum, copper, nickel or any combination thereof.

[0179] In some examples, the at least one colorant is or comprises a fluorescence material.

[0180] In some examples, the fluorescence material is one or more of Quantum dots, perovskites, fluorescent dyes, semiconductor nano-micro particles.

[0181] It should be noted that the average size of the particles may be measured by any method known to a person skilled in the art for example by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) using a Malvern Zeta Nano Sizer.

[0182] As described herein, at least one layer comprising a carrier material is associated with the at least one colorant. The carrier material as used herein may refer in some examples to a scaffold material or a matrix formed by a resin, a polymer, or a co-polymer.

[0183] In some examples, the carrier material at least one resin, at least one polymer, at least one co-polymer, at least one natural wax, at least one modified wax or any combination thereof.

[0184] In some examples, the carrier material is a polymeric material.

[0185] In some examples, the scaffold / matrix comprising the polymeric material is characterized by pores / voids the dimensions of which manipulated in the presence of a chemical agent or physical conditions.

[0186] In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises a porous polymer, an encasing polymer or any combination thereof.

[0187] The term “porous polymer” as used herein refers to a polymer material that contains pores or voids (for example of a size of nanoscale or microscale) within its structure, creating a three-dimensional network with empty spaces. Without being bound by theory, it was suggested that colorant, for example the pigment is embedded (partially or fully) within the polymeric material (matrix) as detailed herein.

[0188] The term “encasing polymer” as used herein refers to polymer that envelopes the colorant thus preventing its erosion and protecting it from the environment.

[0189] In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises a polymer that is characterized by being transparent at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns. In some examples, the polymeric material comprising the at least one colorant is or comprises a polymer that is characterized by being transparent between at a wavelength of about 8 and about 15 microns. The transparency in some examples is at least about 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least about 80%. In some examples, the transparency is about 60%. In some other examples, the transparency is about 70%. In some examples, the transparency is about 80%. In some examples, the transparency is about 90%.

[0190] In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises a thermoplastic polymer. A thermoplastic polymer refers to a polymer that is pliable or moldable upon specific heating and solidify upon cooling. In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises a thermoset polymer.

[0191] In some examples, the polymeric material is characterized by adhesion properties. In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises an adhesive polymer. As used herein the term adhesive polymer refers to a polymer capable of bonding, conjugating or sticking materials together and in the context of the present disclosure one or more layers.

[0192] In some examples, the polymeric material is or comprises a polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate or any combination thereof.

[0193] In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises one or more of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), polypropylene copolymer (CPP), polypropylene homopolymer (HPP), random polypropylene copolymer (RPP), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polyethylene (PE), polymethylpentene (PMP), polypropylene (PP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyethersulfone (PES), polyurethane (PU), PDMS 10 (Poly dimethylsiloxane), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and any mixture or derivative thereof.

[0194] In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PBT. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PET. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises HDPE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises LLDPE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises LDPE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises MDPE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises CPP. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises HPP. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises RPP. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises UHMWPE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PMP. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PP. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PTFE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PVDF. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises ECTFE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises EVA. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PES. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PU. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises polydimethylsiloxane. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PTFE. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PVB. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PVC. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PVDF. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PMMA. In some embodiments, the polymer is or comprises PU. As appropriated, the present disclosure encompasses any one of the abovementioned polymer as well as any derivative thereof capable of having the same activity / effect.

[0195] The multi-layered structure comprises in accordance with some examples, at least two layers comprising a carrier material denoted herein as “carrier layers”.

[0196] Without being bound by theory, it was suggested that the polymer layers are characterized by reflecting and emissivity properties. Specifically, the carrier layers are characterized by the ability to reflect solar radiation and be a black body radiator.

[0197] The term emissivity as used herein refers to an effectiveness of a material in emitting energy as thermal radiation.

[0198] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant and wherein the polymeric material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof.

[0199] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant and wherein the at least one colorant is a nano pigment or micro-pigment.

[0200] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant and wherein the at least one colorant is or comprises at least one or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3). Lead sulfide (PbS), Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris-synthetic (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3 2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide, spinel yellow (NiTiOs). Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4), iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, ) or a coFmeb2Oin3ation thereof.

[0201] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the carrier material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof and wherein the at least one colorant is a nano pigment or micro-pigment.

[0202] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the polymeric material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof and wherein the at least one colorant is or comprises at least one or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3). Lead sulfide (PbS), Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris-synthetic

[0203] (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3-2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide, spinel yellow (NiTiOs). Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4), iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, Fe2O3) or a combination thereof.

[0204] In accordance with the present disclosure in case the multi-layered structure comprises two or more layers comprising a polymeric material (two layers in the polymeric layers), the two or more layers may comprise the same polymeric material or different polymeric materials. In some examples, the two or more polymeric layers comprises the same polymeric material. In some examples, the two or more polymeric layers comprises a different polymeric material. In some examples, the two or more polymeric layers have at least one polymeric material that is the same in the at least two layers.

[0205] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises at least two layers comprising a polymeric material.

[0206] In some examples in which the multi-layered structure comprises two layers, such that each layer comprises a polymeric material, the polymeric material in each one of the two or more layers may be the same material or may be a different material. In some examples, the polymeric material may overlap between these two or more polymeric layers.

[0207] Reference is made to Figure 4 showing an exemplary multi-layered structure (100) in accordance with some embodiments. Multi-layered structure (100) comprises two polymeric layers, (102 and 104), with layer 102 comprising at least one colorant (dark dots, 106).

[0208] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises two or more layers comprising at least one layer comprising an adhesive polymer.

[0209] In some examples, the two or more polymeric layers are stacked between said at least one layer comprising said polymeric material comprising said at least one colorant and said at least one layer comprising a reflective material.

[0210] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising at least three polymeric layers. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises one layer comprising a polymeric material comprising at least colorant and at least two layers comprising a polymeric material, wherein the layer comprising at least one colorant is exposed to the environment (top layer).

[0211] Reference is made to Figure 5 showing an exemplary multi-layered structure (110) in accordance with some embodiments. Multi-layered structure (110) comprises three carrier layers, (112, 114, 118), with layer 112 comprising at least one colorant (116), layer 114 and layer 118 comprises a polymer.

[0212] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises one layer comprising a polymeric material comprising at least colorant and at least two layers comprising a polymeric material, wherein the layer comprising at least one colorant is exposed to the environment.

[0213] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprises one layer comprising a polymeric material comprising at least colorant and at least four layers comprising a polymeric material, wherein the layer comprising at least one colorant is exposed to the environment, wherein the at least four layers comprising a polymeric material comprises at least two layers comprising a polymer.

[0214] As described herein, the multi-layered structure comprises at least one layer comprising a reflective material. The term reflective material as used herein refers to a material that is capable of redirecting light, or other waves, hence, allowing the material to reflect rather than absorb radiation.

[0215] In some examples, at least one reflective layer is capable of reflecting solar light. Without being bound by theory, it was suggested that at least one reflective layer can produce black body radiation that may be reflected by at least one other reflective layer. It was further suggested that such a configuration may be effective in directing all black body radiation outwards. The term outwards as used herein is to be understood as directed to the environment and particularly black body radiation that is emitted to the environment.

[0216] In some examples, the at least one layer that comprises a polymeric material comprises the same component as the at least one layer that comprises a reflective material. In some further examples, the at least one layer that comprises a polymeric material and the at least one layer that comprises a reflective material comprise at least one common material. In some other examples, the at least one layer that comprises a polymeric material is different than the at least one layer that comprises a reflective material.

[0217] The present disclosure is not limited to a specific reflection material. In some examples, the reflective material is or comprises a metal. The present disclosure is not limited to a specific metal. In some examples, the metal is or comprises aluminum or silver.

[0218] In some examples, the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiCT). diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0219] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant wherein the polymeric material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof and wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiCh), diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0220] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the at least one colorant is a nano pigment or micro-pigment and wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiCh), diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0221] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the at least one colorant is or comprises at least one or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3), Lead sulfide (PbS), Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris-synthetic (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3 2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide, spinel yellow (NiTiOs). Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4), iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, ) or a comFbei2nOa3tion thereof and wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiCL), diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0222] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the carrier material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof, wherein the at least one colorant is a nano pigment or micro-pigment and wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiCL), diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0223] In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising a plurality of layers, wherein at least one layer of the plurality of layers comprises a polymeric material and at least one layer of the plurality of layers is or comprises a reflective material, wherein at least one layer that comprises the polymeric material comprises at least one colorant, wherein the carrier material is one or more of PBT, PET, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, CPP, HPP, RPP, UHMWPE, PE, PMP, PP, PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, EVA, PES, PU, Polydimethylsiloxane, PTFE, PVB, PVC, PVDF, PMMA, and any mixture or derivative thereof, wherein the at least one colorant is or comprises at least one or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3). Lead sulfide (PbS), Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris-synthetic (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3 2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide, spinel yellow (NiTiOs). Caput Mortuum reddish (Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4), iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, ) or a coFme2bOin3ation thereof and wherein the reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic (e.g. SiN, SiO2), diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

[0224] As noted herein, the multi-layered structure comprises multiple layers. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising two or more layers comprising a polymeric material and at least one layer comprising a reflective material. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising at least one layer comprising a polymeric material and two or more layers comprising a reflective material. In some examples, the multi-layered structure comprising two or more layers comprising a polymeric material and two or more layers comprising a reflective material.

[0225] Reference is made to Figure 6 showing an exemplary multi-layered structure (120) in accordance with some embodiments. Multi-layered structure (120) comprises three carrier layers, (122, 124, 128), and a reflective layer (130), with layer 122 comprising at least one colorant (126).

[0226] In some examples, the at least one layer comprising said reflective material is positioned between said one or more layers comprising said polymeric material and a surface of an object.

[0227] The multi-layered structure in accordance with the present disclosure may be in a form of a film. In some examples, the multi-layered structure is in a form of a laminate. The term “laminate” as used herein refers to a multi-layered structure with layers of different materials connected together (bonded / attached / conjugated) such that the combination of layers typically provides features that may not be achieved by the use of each of the materials alone.

[0228] The multi-layered structure may be placed onto at least one surface. The surface as used herein refers to at least one area on which the multi-layered structure may be placed on and / or integrated to.

[0229] The present disclosure is not limited to a specific surface.

[0230] In some examples, the surface is a textile surface.

[0231] In some examples, the surface is an outdoor surface.

[0232] In some examples, the surface is a rooftop.

[0233] In some examples, the surface is a wearing article.

[0234] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is incorporated into a textile.

[0235] The surface as used herein is of an object onto which the multi-layered structure may be placed on and / or integrated to. In some examples, the object is a transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof.

[0236] In some examples, the multi-layered structure may be incorporated in a textile.

[0237] In some examples, the multi-layered structure may be provided in paint.

[0238] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is for use as an insulation material.

[0239] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein for use as insulation material such as an insulation layer.

[0240] The term insulation layer as used herein refers to a material or a structure suitable of impeding transfer of heat, between different mediums or environments.

[0241] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is for use in enhancing cooling of an object.

[0242] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides the multi- layered structure as described herein for use in enhancing cooling of an object.

[0243] The term enhancing cooling of an object, as used herein, refers to achieving a reduction in the temperature of the object.

[0244] The term reduction or decrease as referred herein relate to reduction in the temperature of the object by any one of about 1% to 99.9%, specifically, about 1% to about 5%, about 5% to 10%, about 10% to 15%, about 15% to 20%, about 20% to 25%, about 25% to 30%, about 30% to 35%, about 35% to 40%, about 40% to 45%, about 45% to 50%, about 50% to 55%, about 55% to 60%, about 60% to 65%, about 65% to 70%, about 75% to 80%, about 80% to 85% about 85% to 90%, about 90% to 95%, about 95% to 99%, or about 99% to 99.9%, 100% or more as compared to the temperature of an object having a similar color attached directly to a substate metal. In addition, when refereeing to a reduction in temperature as compared to a control reference, it should be understood as reduction by about 1°C, about 2°C, about 3°C, about 4°C, about 5°C, about 6°C, about 7°C, about 8°C, about 9°C, about 10°C, about 11°C, about 12°C, about 13°C, about 14°C, about 15°C, about 16°C, about 17°C, about 18°C, about 19°C, about 20°C, about 21°C, about 22°C, about 23°C, about 24°C, about 25°C, about 26°C, about 27°C, or more as compared to the temperature of an object having a similar color attached directly to a substate metal.

[0245] In some examples, the object comprises a surface exposed to sunlight.

[0246] In some examples, the object is an exterior structure.

[0247] In some examples, the object is one or more of transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof.

[0248] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides use of the multi-layered structure as described herein as an insulation material, such as an insulation layer.

[0249] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides use of the multi-layered structure as described herein in the preparation of an apparatus for enhancing cooling of an object.

[0250] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides use of the multi-layered structure as described herein for enhancing cooling of an object.

[0251] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides an article of manufacture comprising the multi-layered structure as described herein.

[0252] In some examples, the multi-layered structure is attached to at least one surface of the article of manufacture.

[0253] In some examples, the article of manufacture is configured to enhance cooling of an object.

[0254] In some examples, the article of manufacture is configured to reduce solar absorption in an object.

[0255] In some examples, the article of manufacture is configured to reduce temperature in an object.

[0256] In some examples, the article of manufacture is configured to enhance cooling in an object.

[0257] In accordance with some other aspects, the present disclosure provides a cooling apparatus comprising the multi-layered structure as described herein. The present disclosure relates to a method for enhancing cooling of an object, the method comprising attaching a multi-layered structure as described herein to at least one surface of the object.

[0258] The present disclosure relates to an object comprising a multi-layered structure attached to at least one surface of the object, wherein said multi-layered structure is as described herein.

[0259] The term "about" as used herein indicates values that may deviate up to 1%, more specifically 5%, more specifically 10%, more specifically 15%, and in some cases up to 20% higher or lower than the value referred to, the deviation range including integer values, and, if applicable, non-integer values as well, constituting a continuous range. As used herein the term "about" refers to ± 10 %.

[0260] It should be noted that various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. The description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range inclusive the end points values. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 or between 1 and 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0261] It should be noted that the term “at least one” refers to one or more of the following and encompasses any one of 1, 2, 3, or more of the specified information.

[0262] It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and not intended to be limiting since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

[0263] Throughout this specification and the Examples and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0264] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0265] The following examples are representative of techniques employed by the inventors in carrying out aspects of the present invention. It should be appreciated that while these techniques are exemplary of preferred embodiments for the practice of the invention, those of skill in the art, in light of the present disclosure, will recognize that numerous modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.

[0266] It should be noted that the various embodiments and examples detailed herein in connection with various aspects of the invention may be applicable to one or more aspects disclosed herein. It should be further noted that any embodiment described herein, for example, related to the multi-layered structure, may be applied separately or in various combinations. Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below find experimental support in the following examples. The phrases “in another embodiment” or any refence made to embodiment as used herein do not necessarily refer to different embodiment, although it may. Thus, various embodiments of the invention can be combined (from the same or from different aspects) without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0267] SOME NON-LIMITING EXAMPLES

[0268] Example 1: Characterization of different pigments

[0269] Each one of the following different pigments was embedded in a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) having a width of about 50 microns at a ratio of 1:2.

[0270] Lead sulfide (PbS) - appears black or dark gray.

[0271] Cobalt blue - appears as blue.

[0272] Chrome antimony titanate rutile (Spinel orange) - appears as orange.

[0273] Prussian blue - appears as blue.

[0274] Chromium oxide - appears as green.

[0275] Bismuth oxide - appears as yellow or a variation like pale yellow.

[0276] Ultraviolet-Visible-Near Infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) transmission and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were measured for each one of the PTFE layers. Figure 1 shows UV-Vis-NIR transmission of PTFE films, each film comprising one of the above-mentioned different pigments.

[0277] As can be seen from Figure 1, each one of the pigments showed an absorption (where transmission drops) at a different wavelength below 750nm that is indicative of the color.

[0278] The results of Figure 1 show that the tested pigments have acceptable levels of absorption when embedded in PTFE at a different wavelength below 750nm.

[0279] Figure 2 shows FTIR transmission of PTFE comprising each one of the different pigments.

[0280] The results in Figure 2 show that the tested pigments have high levels of transmission in the atmospheric window 500-1000 cm1.

[0281] Taken together, these results suggest that the tested pigments efficiently transmit infrared radiation in this range, thereby reducing heat absorption and minimizing heat trapping.

[0282] Example 2: Calculation of thermal R value

[0283] Thermal resistance was measured on a system comprising multiple stacked layers, of PTFE and an aluminum layer using Guarded Hot Plate method.

[0284] The PTFE layer was adhered to the aluminum layer using an adhesion layer comprising polyvinyl butyral (PVB) (thickness of 10 microns).

[0285] Thermal resistance was measured under conditions applying temperature differences of around 5°C and around 10°C.

[0286] Initially, thermal stability was measured on a stack of three layers, each one comprising PTFE and aluminum and with time on a stack of two layers and finally on a single layer.

[0287] Two separate measurements were conducted, each one shown in different colors that reflect the uncertainty in the resistance, that is higher in the stack of three layers.

[0288] As can be seen from Figure 3, the decrease in the number of layers (3, 2 and 1) resulted in a reduction in the thermal resistance (Y axis) when the thickness of the composite material was considered. The difference measured between each stack (indicted by the value denoted in Y) provides an estimate of the resistance of a single layer. The X and Y values that are shown as inserts within a Figure 3 represent deviation of the measurements.

[0289] Thermal conductivity can be determined from the measured heat flux [q] in W / mA2 and the temperature difference [DT] in C, the specific thermal resistance [r] was calculated by: r=DT / q in mA2K / W.

[0290] The thermal resistance is then divided by the sample thickness [t] in m and then inverted to estimate [k] :

[0291] K = (r / t)A- 1 in W / m / K

[0292] The results of this measurements show that the thermal conductivity of a system comprising the polymer and aluminum as the reflector is around 0.075 W / mK which corresponds to the thermal resistance value of 5.33xl0A-3 mA2K / W.

[0293] These values of thermal conductivity and / or thermal resistance suggest that each layer is a poor conductor of heat and may be classified as a thermal insulator. In other words, it suggests that the polymer and aluminum layer resist the transfer of heat effectively, making it suitable for applications requiring thermal insulation.

[0294] Taken together, the results suggest that the polymeric material allowing less amount of heat to be conducted from the absorbing color layer to the cooler bottom.

[0295] Example 3: Differences between Cr2O3green and commercial green

[0296] Two samples were tested:

[0297] 1. Cr2O3green over a multi-layered structure as described herein. The formulation of the color that was used for preparation multi-layered colored structure contained 1% of Cr2O3. 2% of PVDF and 0.15gr of SilWet L77 agent (50ml).

[0298] 2. Commercial green directly on metal.

[0299] The performance of Cr2O3green applied on a multi-layered structure was compared to that of commercial green applied directly on metal.

[0300] Example 3A: visual comparison Figures 7A and 7B show visual comparison of Cr2O3green applied over the product of the present disclosure (Figure 7A) and commercial green applied directly onto metal (Figure 7B). As can be seen, both samples have similar green color.

[0301] Example 3B: Temperature measurements

[0302] Temperature measurements were taken outdoors to observe the thermal performance of the samples: Cr2O3green over the product described herein and commercial green directly on metal.

[0303] Figure 8 illustrate the temperature measurements taken outdoors, compared to the ambient temperature. As can be seen from Figure 8, the temperature of the Cr2O3green over the product decreased by about 4 °C during sun time compared to the same commercial green directly applied on metal. This result indicates that the composite material effectively reduces temperature by absorbing less solar energy and retaining less heat even though it contains a colorant.

[0304] Example 3C: Solar absorption and color code analysis

[0305] The two samples mentioned above were analyzed using UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy to determine their color code and solar absorption.

[0306] The color code and the solar absorption were determined from the UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy and by a standard ASTM E903-12 method.

[0307] The solar absorption (Asolar) was calculated using the following formula: wherein Bλ. α represents the weighted solar absorption per unit wavelength, at wavelength A.

[0308] The color code was determined as follows:

[0309] Once a UV-Vis spectrum is obtained for some colorant on some substrate, the reflectance spectrum (Rλ) is related to the xyz coordinate via the following transformations:

[0310]

[0311] Where:

[0312] E is the spectral power distribution of the illuminant, with D65 being a standard distribution approximating natural lighting. x, y, z are the spectral Color Matching Functions (CMF), derived and distributed by the CIS organization.

[0313] The results are summarized in Table 1.

[0314] Table 1: color code and solar absorption measurements.

[0315] As can be seen in Table 1, the color codes of both samples were similar, indicating that the visual appearance of the Cr2O3green and commercial green is comparable as also demonstrated in Figures 7A and 7B.

[0316] In addition, as can be seen in Table 1, the Cr2O3green over the product had a solar absorption of 511 W / m2, while the commercial green on metal had a higher solar absorption of 715 W / m2. This difference in solar absorption suggests that the Cr2O3green multi-layered structure absorbs less solar energy and hence minimizing heat gain.

[0317] Figure 9 shows comparison of reflectance spectrum for both the Cr2O3green and the commercial green samples. As can be seen, the Cr2O3green is more reflective in the visible spectrum. Figure 10 shows comparison of color codes of the commercial green and Cr2O3green.

[0318] In summary, the results in these examples, demonstrate that the Cr2O3green applied over the product of the present disclosure offers superior thermal performance and lower solar absorption compared to commercial green applied directly on metal. This suggests that the Cr2O3green multi-layered structure more suitable for applications requiring effective thermal management and reduced heat absorption.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A multi-layered structure comprising one or more polymeric layers and at least one reflective layer, wherein at least one polymeric layer comprises a polymeric material and at least one colorant and wherein said layer comprising said polymeric material and said colorant is positioned as the top layer of said structure.

2. The multi-layered structure of claim 1, wherein said polymeric layer is or comprises a polymeric material.

3. The multi-layered structure of claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one colorant is at least partially embedded within said polymeric material.

4. The multi-layered structure of claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one colorant is positioned on top of said at least one polymeric material.

5. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said layers are organized in a stacked configuration.

6. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said layer comprising said polymeric material and said colorant forms a continuous layer.

7. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said one or more layers positioned below said top layer is characterized by an emissivity of at least 0.6 at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns.

8. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said one or more layers positioned below said top layer is characterized by reflecting at least 95% of solar energy.

9. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 8, having a thermal resistance of between about 0.0008 m2K / W and about 100 m2K / W.

10. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 9, having a thermal resistance of between about 0.004 m2K / W and about 0.007 m2K / W.

11. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 10, having a thickness of between about 0.15mm and about 3mm.

12. The multi-layered structure of claim 11 , having a thickness of between about0.35mm and about 1mm.

13. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said colorant is transparent at a wavelength of between about 8 and about 15 microns.

14. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said colorant is at least one of nano pigment, micro-pigment, plasmonic nanoparticle, fluorescence material or any combination thereof.

15. The multi-layered structure of claim 14, wherein said at least one nano pigment or micro-pigment is at least one or more of or more of bismuth oxide, Chromium Oxide (Cr2O3). PbS, Prussian Blue (Fe4[Fe(CN)e]3), Spinel Orange (Chrome Antimony titanite buff rutile (Ti,Cr,Sb)O2), cobalt blue , Cobalt green bluish A (CoZnO-cobalt zinc oxide), Verdigris-synthetic (Cu(CH3COO)2.[Cu(OH)2]3 2H2O), Spinel green (Cobalt Titanate Green Spinel, Co / Ti / Ni / Zn Oxide), spinel yellow (NiTiCh). Caput Mortuum reddish(Mixture of natural barium sulphate (BaSO4) and iron oxides (Fe2O3and Fe3O4)), Cinnabar (HgS) , Mars Black (FeO, ). Fe2O316. The multi-layered structure of claim 14, wherein said plasmonic nanoparticle is or comprises at least one of silver, gold, aluminum, copper, nickel or any combination thereof.

17. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein said polymeric material is or comprises a porous polymer, an encasing polymer or any combination thereof.

18. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said polymeric material is or comprises one or more of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), polypropylene copolymer (CPP), polypropylene homopolymer (HPP), random polypropylene copolymer (RPP), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polyethylene (PE), polymethylpentene (PMP), polypropylene (PP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyethersulfone (PES), polyurethane (PU), PDMS 10 (Poly dimethylsiloxane), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and any mixture or derivative thereof.

19. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein said reflective material is or comprises a metal.

20. The multi-layered structure of claim 19, wherein said metal is or comprises aluminum or silver.

21. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein said reflective material is or comprises one or more of a polymer, ceramic; SiN, SiO2, diamond, diamond like carbon (DLC).

22. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising one or more infrared radiation layers.

23. The multi-layered structure of claim 22, wherein said at least one layer comprising said polymeric material and said colorant and said layer comprising a reflective material are positioned at opposite sides with respective to said infrared radiation layer.

24. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein said at least one layer comprising said reflective material is positioned in close proximity to a surface of an object.

25. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein said at least one layer comprising said reflective material is attached to at least one surface of an object.

26. The multi-layered structure of claim 24 or 25, wherein said object is a transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof.

27. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 26, incorporated in a textile.

28. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 26, provided in paint.

29. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 28 for use as an insulation material.

30. The multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 29 for use in use in enhancing cooling of an object.

31. The multi-layered structure of claim 30, wherein said object comprises a surface exposed to sunlight.

32. The multi-layered structure of claim 30 or 31 wherein said object is an exterior structure.

33. The multi-layered structure of claim 30 or 31, wherein said object is one or more of transportation vehicle, a building material, a roofing material, a wearable article, an aerospace machine, a storage product and electronic device, an outdoor product or any combination thereof.

34. Use of the multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 33 in the preparation of an insulation material.

35. Use of the multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 33 in the preparation of an apparatus for enhancing cooling of an object.

36. An article of manufacture comprising the multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 33.

37. The article of manufacture of claim 36, wherein said multi-layered structure is attached to at least one surface of said article of manufacture.

38. The article of manufacture of claim 36 or 37 configured to enhance cooling of an object.

39. The article of manufacture of claim 37 or 38 configured to reduce solar absorption in an object.

40. A cooling apparatus comprising the multi-layered structure of any one of claims 1 to 33.

41. A method for enhancing cooling of an object, the method comprising attaching a multi-layered structure to at least one surface of said object, wherein said multi-layered structure is defined in any one of claims 1 to 33.

42. An object comprising a multi-layered structure attached to at least one surface of said object, wherein said multi-layered structure is defined in any one of claims 1 to 33.

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