- Scientists from China and Australia have developed a new biodegradable metafilm designed to reduce building energy consumption.
- The film, made from plant-derived polylactic acid, passively reflects solar radiation and allows internal heat to escape, cooling surfaces without electricity.
- Testing showed the metafilm can reduce temperatures by up to 9.2C during peak sunlight hours and keep surfaces 4.9C cooler on average during the day.
- This environmentally friendly alternative to air conditioning is durable, maintaining performance even after prolonged exposure to harsh conditions.
- Computer simulations indicate the metafilm could cut annual energy consumption in hot cities by over 20 per cent, with potential future applications in various sectors.
IN FULL