Physicochemical properties of dirt-resistant cool white coatings for building energy efficiency

The physicochemical properties of two newly developed dirt-resistant cool white coatings were systematically measured in light of the relevant standard testing methods, and the influences of dirt accumulation and washing on the long-term cooling performance of cool coatings were investigated and discussed. Both cool white coatings owe their outstanding physicochemical properties to the optimized formulations, high glass transition temperature and minimum film formation temperature of selected aqueous self-curing acrylic emulsions. The high solid content was also influential. Dirt accumulation leads to a decline in the cooling performance of coatings, which may be almost fully restored by simply washing the coatings with a mild soap solution.

► Physicochemical properties of the developed cool white coatings were examined.
► All physicochemical properties of two coatings meet the relevant specifications.
► The quantitative properties far exceed the minimum technical requirements.
► Dirt accumulation reduces coatings' reflection and cooling performance.
► The dirt accumulation's effect can be almost fully eliminated by washing coatings.