Abstract
Thermochromic elastomeric roof coatings for low-slope roofs were prepared by incorporating a commercial thermochromic dye (with transition temperature, Tc∼32°C) into a white acrylic elastomer matrix. Freshly applied coatings showed an initial temperature-dependent solar reflectance change of 22–25%, with a maximum solar reflectance of 70% in the colorless state (T>Tc). Weathering studies revealed that these thermochromic coatings undergo irreversible photodegradation in as little as 96h of accelerated aging. Attempts to protect thermochromic dyes with inorganic (nano-ZnO) or organic (Lowilite® 20S) UV absorbers were partially successful but need significant improvements to achieve the required lifetime of at least 10 years. Cost calculations in three different geographies showed that even if the durability of these coatings is greatly improved, the energy savings relative to the incumbent static cool roofs are small and do not currently justify the additional cost of thermochromic pigments and UV absorbers.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
