In a remarkable scientific breakthrough, researchers at the Institute of Energy and Environment have developed a novel material capable of absorbing solar energy and converting it into a tool to reduce ambient temperature. This discovery could have significant implications for mitigating global warming and improving livability in urban areas.
The material, called “ThermaSol,” consists of a mixture of nanomaterials and advanced polymers that allow for the efficient capture and conversion of solar energy. In tests conducted in controlled environments, ThermaSol has been shown to reduce the temperature of surfaces exposed to the sun by up to 10 degrees Celsius, a figure that could revolutionize the way we design buildings and urban spaces.
Researchers emphasize that one of the most promising applications of this material is its potential use on roofs and building facades, as well as on road surfaces and pavements. By installing ThermaSol in such areas, the urban heat island effect could be significantly reduced, a phenomenon where metropolitan areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to the concentration of paved surfaces and buildings.
The project leader, Dr. Carlos Méndez, stated that his team’s goal is to create practical solutions that can be adopted on a large scale. “ThermaSol not only captures solar energy, but also turns it into a tool to combat excess heat, offering a double benefit in the fight against climate change,” explained Méndez. Additionally, the material has proven to be highly durable, maintaining its properties for years without a significant decrease in effectiveness.
The positive impact of ThermaSol is not limited to temperature reduction. Experts also point out that its implementation could reduce the demand for air conditioning, thereby reducing energy consumption and emissions associated with electricity generation. This presents an additional benefit towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
Future research steps will include expanding tests to a pilot city level to evaluate its performance under real conditions. If the results are positive, similar initiatives could be implemented in other parts of the world, particularly in regions experiencing extreme heatwaves.
This finding represents a hopeful breakthrough and underscores the importance of scientific innovation in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
