In a groundbreaking new development, Dr. Jin Gu Kang and his team at the Nanophotonics Research Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) have created a unique radiation-cooling liquid crystal material that not only cools without the need for external power but also emits vibrant colors. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the realm of eco-friendly cooling technologies and reduce the reliance on power-intensive air conditioners.
Traditionally, radiative cooling materials for daytime use have been limited to white colors to minimize sunlight absorption. While effective in cooling, the aesthetic limitations of these materials have hindered their application in buildings and vehicles. Previous attempts at developing colored radiative cooling materials have resulted in reduced cooling efficiency due to light absorption for color production or limitations in achieving distinct colors with photonic crystals.
Development of Colored Radiative Cooling Liquid Crystal Material
To address these challenges, Dr. Jin Gu Kang’s team fabricated bent spiral liquid crystal photonic crystals. By utilizing a commercial liquid crystal (LC242) that not only reduces temperature through radiation cooling but also forms colored photonic crystals in a spiral structure, the researchers were able to achieve vivid colors that do not vary with viewing angles. This innovative approach offers a unique solution to the limitations of conventional photonic crystals.
By combining the colored radiation-cooling liquid crystal material with transparent and metallic thin films, the team achieved a significant cooling effect, with temperatures approximately 30.8°C lower than traditional colored paints and 3.1°C lower than ambient air. This material has the potential to reduce air conditioning consumption in buildings and vehicles where aesthetics are a concern. Furthermore, it can provide power-free cooling for outdoor leisure items and military tents.
The development of the colored radiation-cooling liquid crystal material represents a significant step forward in the field of cooling technologies. Not only does it offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective cooling solution, but it also addresses the aesthetic limitations of previous radiative cooling materials. With its potential applications in various industries, this innovative material holds promise for a sustainable and efficient cooling future.
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