In the quest for innovative solutions to persisting challenges, scientific researchers often turn to nature's intricate designs and systems. One such groundbreaking study emerges from the diligent efforts of Prof. WANG Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Chair Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). His exploration into nature's complexities has led to remarkable findings with significant real-world applications, particularly in the realm of cooling ceramics.

Published in the prestigious journal Science, the research project titled "Hierarchically structured passive radiative cooling ceramic with high solar reflectivity" showcases a collaboration between Prof. Wang, Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Chair Professor of Thermal and Environmental Engineering at PolyU, and a research team from the City University of Hong Kong.

Their collective efforts resulted in the development of a passive radiative cooling ceramic boasting an extraordinary 99.6% solar reflectivity. This innovative material, born from meticulous observation of nature's wonders, promises substantial energy-saving potential while exhibiting resilience against weather conditions and offering robust mechanical strength, ultimately reducing the cooling demands of indoor environments.

Prof. Wang highlighted the essence of their work, stating, "Our work on cooling ceramic exemplifies the power of learning from nature. It addresses a significant research gap in passive radiative cooling, specifically high solar reflectivity."

Inspired by the Cyphochilus beetle, known for its exceptional whiteness, the team derived their innovation from the beetle's intricate biological structure. By mimicking the beetle's scattering system and engineering a hierarchically porous structure, the cooling ceramic demonstrated outstanding daytime cooling performance, effectively minimizing energy consumption for indoor cooling.

Prof. Wang emphasized the wealth of inspiration nature offers, stating, "Nature offers us an abundance of intricate designs, efficient systems, and sustainable solutions that have evolved over millions of years."

Furthermore, their research delved into uncharted territory by addressing the Leidenfrost effect, a phenomenon hindering heat transfer at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. Prof. Wang's structured thermal armour (STA) showcased potential in enabling efficient liquid cooling under extreme temperatures, revolutionizing the conventional understanding of this effect.

The cooling ceramic's hierarchical porous structure, akin to that of the STA design, plays a pivotal role in its success by facilitating efficient liquid evaporation, thereby inhibiting the Leidenfrost effect—an unprecedented feat within the domain of passive radiative cooling materials.

This novel exploration not only expands the horizons of material design for passive radiative cooling but also provides insights into STA development and application. The cooling ceramic's multifunctionality, simple fabrication, weather resistance, mechanical robustness, and recyclability make it adaptable for diverse applications in construction and beyond.

Prof. Wang's vision extends beyond this breakthrough; he spearheads the Research Centre for Nature-Inspired Science and Engineering at PolyU. This center aims to harness nature's brilliance for transformative solutions to societal and environmental challenges, aligning perfectly with the ethos driving this remarkable cooling ceramic research.

In Prof. Wang's words, "This cooling ceramic research breakthrough illustrates the practicality and versatility of our approach, making it ready for real-world applications."

Nature continues to inspire scientific innovation, paving the way for impactful solutions through the development of new materials, devices, and systems. As researchers like Prof. Wang delve deeper into the mysteries of the natural world, humanity stands to benefit from the transformative potential these discoveries offer.

Based on: www.sciencedaily.com
Materials provided by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.