Development and characterization of a reflection paint with nano-ilmenite material for energy-saving in buildings

Abstract

Low-rise buildings are suitable for cooling roofs to save energy in hot climates. Thermal reflection paints using titanium dioxide micronized particles, nano P-25, and nano-ilmenite were compared with commercial thermal reflection paints to evaluate thermal performance. nano-ilmenite material was synthesized using a hydrothermal technique. The chemical composition, size, and structure were characterized by XRF, SEM, and TEM. The color was measured according to ISO 1164–4. The reflectance in the UV–VIS–NIR region was measured according to ASTM E 903. The thermal performance was determined using a simulation test with an IR lamp and a field test. The results showed that they had been synthesized to nanofiber structure, increased titanium dioxide content (62.1%), and demonstrated the presence of hematite, metal oxides, and ceramics. In all thermal reflection paints, the results showed that there was a similarity in the lightness mode (L*) and blue-yellow mode (b*), which presents yellowness (0.98, 0.94) in thermal reflection paints using nanoparticles. The NIR and TSR reflectances of thermal reflection paint with nano-ilmenite were highest (56.8, 59.8%). The thermal performance properties measured using an IR camera for both samples (nano P-25 and nano-ilmenite) showed substances with low surface temperatures, indicating that they can block IR radiation. Therefore, thermal reflection paints using nano-ilmenite, which also acts as a barrier, can reduce the surface temperature. Improving thermal performance, which inhibits heat transfer or sunlight entering a building, can reduce the building's heating load demand.

Keywords

• Hydrothermal
• Thermal reflection paint
• Ilmenite mineral
• Barrier