Session: K9-05: RADIATIVE COOLING AND RADIATIVE PROPERTIES OF NANOMATERIALS

Paper Number: 138501

138501 - Atmospheric-Moisture-Induced Polyacrylate Hydrogels for Hybrid Passive Cooling 

Abstract: 

Heat stress is being exacerbated by global warming, jeopardizing human and social sustainability. As a result, reliable and energy-efficient cooling methods are highly sought-after. Here, we report a polyacrylate film fabricated by self-moisture-absorbing hygroscopic hydrogel for efficient hybrid passive cooling. Using one of the lowest-cost industrial materials (e.g., sodium polyacrylate), we demonstrate radiative cooling by reducing solar heating with high solar reflectance (0.93) while maximizing thermal emission with high mid-infrared emittance (0.99). Importantly, the manufacturing process utilizes only atmospheric moisture and requires no additional chemicals or energy consumption, making it a completely green process. Under sunlight illumination of 800 W m⁻², the surface temperature of the film was reduced by 5 °C under a partly cloudy sky observed at Buffalo, NY. Combined with its hygroscopic feature, this film can simultaneously introduce evaporative cooling that is independent of access to the clear sky. The hybrid passive cooling approach is projected to decrease global carbon emissions by 118.4 billion kg/year compared to current air-conditioning facilities powered by electricity. Given its low-cost raw materials and excellent molding feature, the film can be manufactured through simple and cost-effective roll-to-roll processes, making it suitable for future building construction and personal thermal management needs.

Presenting Author: Yanpei Tian Purdue University

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Yanpei Tian completed his Having completed his Ph.D. at Northeastern University and worked as a postdoc researcher at Purdue University and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. My research focused on the development and optimization of photonic metamaterials for enhanced energy transport and environmental applications. His work encompasses designing and fabricating multifunctional materials, notably for applications in thermal management, waste heat harvesting, and solar-driven water desalination, contributing significantly to sustainable engineering solutions.

Authors:

Yanpei Tian Purdue University
Qiaoqiang Gan King Abdullah University of Science and Technology