Buildings and photovoltaic (PV) systems face two major challenges: excessive heat gain and frequent surface soiling. In tropical climates, solar heat through glass façades can account for up to 40% of total cooling demand, while dust accumulation on PV panels can lower efficiency by 5–30% within months. These issues increase energy use, maintenance frequency, and operational costs.
This technology introduces a multifunctional multilayer coating that integrates self-cleaning, infrared (IR) heat rejection, and high optical transparency in a single, durable formulation. Unlike conventional coatings that require multiple layers for different functions, this innovation achieves comparable or superior performance in an integrated multilayer design—simplifying application and lowering cost. The photocatalytic self-cleaning surface decomposes organic contaminants and enables natural washing by rain, reducing cleaning needs. Simultaneously, the IR-reflective layer rejects near-infrared heat while maintaining over ~80% visible light transmittance, cutting cooling energy use by ~10–15% without compromising daylight. Compact, scalable, and retrofit-friendly, this coating offers a cost-effective solution for building operators and solar installers aiming to enhance energy efficiency, reduce maintenance, and improve sustainability performance.
The technology owner is seeking industry partners in solar panel manufacturing, green building projects, and glass applications for licensing
- Advanced Sputtering Process: Enables uniform multilayer deposition with high scratch resistance, strong adhesion, and optimized refractive index for superior optical clarity.
- High Transparency with Heat Rejection: Maintains ~80% visible light transmittance while blocking infrared radiation (700–2500 nm) to reduce solar heat gain.
- Thermal Regulation: Proven to lower surface and indoor temperatures in both PV applications and buildings respectively.
- Multifunctional Design: Integrates self-cleaning, heat reflection, and high transparency into a single coating layer, simplifying fabrication and application.
- Self-Cleaning Surface: Photocatalytic-hydrophilic layer breaks down contaminants and allows natural rinsing by rain, reducing cleaning frequency.
- Cost-Competitive Solution: Offers multi-functional performance at comparable cost to conventional single-function coatings, suitable for solar panels, façades, and glass applications.
["Energy Efficiency","Multifunctional Coatings","Self-cleaning Technology","Solar Panel Efficiency"]