"Breathable" Paint Keeps Buildings Cool Even in Hot and Humid Cities

“Breathable” Paint Keeps Buildings Cool Even in Hot and Humid Cities

Written by Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Published on 25/06/2025 at 23:48

Updated on 25/06/2025 at 23:51

Foto: Reprodução

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New Paint Developed in Singapore Reduces Air Conditioning Use by Up to 40% Even in Hot and Humid Climates and Resists Yellowing for Years.

A paint developed by scientists in Singapore could transform the way houses are cooled in hot and humid regions. The new material lowers building temperatures and decreases the need for air conditioning, even in intense climates.

Combination of Technologies

Unlike conventional paints, this innovative formula combines three mechanisms: radiative cooling, solar reflection, and evaporative cooling.

The cement-based and porous structure of the paint allows it to retain water and release it slowly, much like it is “sweating.”

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High Reflectivity and Durability

Efficiency is not just in cooling. The new paint also reflected between 88% and 92% of sunlight, preventing heat from entering. Another highlight was its resistance to weather.

After two years of heat and humidity, traditional paints yellowed. The new formula maintained its white color, thanks to special nanoparticles that enhance reflectivity and preserve appearance.

Impact on Hot Cities

The discovery has the potential to drastically reduce energy use in places like Singapore and countries in the Middle East, where buildings use up to 60% of electricity just for air conditioning.

Additionally, it could help combat the urban heat island effect, common in urban centers with concrete and asphalt accumulating heat.

The study was published this month in the scientific journal Science, paving the way for new solutions in urban thermal efficiency.

“Breathable” Paint Keeps Buildings Cool Even in Hot and Humid Cities

New Paint Developed in Singapore Reduces Air Conditioning Use by Up to 40% Even in Hot and Humid Climates and Resists Yellowing for Years.

Combination of Technologies

High Reflectivity and Durability

Impact on Hot Cities

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“Breathable” Paint Keeps Buildings Cool Even in Hot and Humid Cities

New Paint Developed in Singapore Reduces Air Conditioning Use by Up to 40% Even in Hot and Humid Climates and Resists Yellowing for Years.

Combination of Technologies

High Reflectivity and Durability

Impact on Hot Cities

While an average building in London or New York takes three years to be completed, in China a 26-story tower went up in five days with about 100 workers, and the global modular construction market already moves US$ 95 billion per year.

Australia installs giant concrete structures on the seabed 800 meters from the shore to create an ocean intake for desalination that will draw in saltwater and produce 30 million liters of drinking water per day.

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