Layered Solar Reflective Coating for Deep Color and High Infrared Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current colored solar reflective systems face limitations in achieving high solar reflectance while providing deep, intense colors due to the need for high levels of conventional titanium dioxide, which can lead to reduced reflectance from impurities and suboptimal primer layers.
Innovation Solution
A layered colored solar reflective system comprising a first layer with particulate material of rutile crystal habit and average particle size between 0.55 µm and 0.95 µm, and a second layer with rutile crystal habit and average particle size between 1.0 µm and 1.6 µm, along with a colorant, to achieve enhanced total solar reflectance and deep, vibrant colors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional titanium dioxide is used in high levels to provide solar reflectance, then solar reflection is improved, but color intensity is reduced and impurities cause absorption in the near-infrared spectrum
Solution Approach 1:
The coating is divided into two distinct layers: a primer layer containing fine particulate material (0.4-0.8 μm) optimized for solar reflection, and a basecoat layer containing larger particulate material (0.8-1.6 μm) and colorants optimized for color intensity. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the coating have different properties: the primer layer has high solar reflectance with fine particles, while the basecoat layer has intense color with larger particles and colorants. Each layer is locally optimized for its specific function rather than using a uniform composition throughout.
2Loss of energy
If conventional titanium dioxide is used to achieve solar reflectance, then solar reflection is improved, but impurities lead to absorption in the near-infrared part of the spectrum
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the particle size parameter of the titanium dioxide to specific ranges (0.4-0.8 μm for primer, 0.8-1.6 μm for basecoat) and uses high-purity material to minimize impurities. This parameter optimization enhances both solar and near-infrared reflectance while maintaining color intensity.
3Ease of manufacture
If primer layers are used in conventional systems, then coverage is provided, but they are not engineered to give maximum solar reflectance
Solution Approach 1:
The primer layer is applied first and specifically engineered with fine particulate material (0.4-0.8 μm) titanium dioxide optimized for maximum solar reflectance. This preliminary layer establishes a high-reflectance base before the color-providing basecoat is applied, ensuring maximum energy reflection is achieved from the substrate level.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides high total solar reflectance, reducing surface temperature and energy consumption, while maintaining structural integrity and preventing heat-related damage, offering improved infrared reflectivity and color retention.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention relates to a layered colored solar reflective system containing: (i) a first layer, wherein the first layer is a layer that comprises a particulate material and a vehicle, wherein the particulate material has a substantially rutile crystal habit and an average particle size within a range of about 0.55 μm and about 0.95 μm
Implementation Method 2
When this near-infrared radiation is absorbed, it is physically converted into heat.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a layered colored solar reflective system comprising (i) a first layer comprising a first particulate material having a substantially rutile crystal habit and an average particle size within a range of about 0.55 µm and about 0.95 µm, dispersed in a vehicle and (ii) a second layer positioned on at least a portion of the first layer, the second layer comprising a second particulate material having a substantially rutile crystal habit and an average particle size within a range of about 1.0 µm and 1.6 µm, and a colorant dispersed in a vehicle. The layered color solar reflective system may be applied onto a structure to provide a dark, intense color as well as enhanced total solar reflectance.