Development and characterization of a reflection paint with nano-ilmenite material for energy-saving in buildings

Low-rise buildings are suitable for cooling roofs to save energy in hot climates. Thermal reflection paints using titanium dioxide micronized particles, nano P-25, and nano-ilmenite were compared with commercial thermal reflection paints to evaluate thermal performance. nano-ilmenite material was synthesized using a hydrothermal technique. The chemical composition, size, and structure were characterized by XRF, SEM, and TEM. The color was measured according to ISO 1164-4. The reflectance in the UV-VIS-NIR region was measured according to ASTM E 903. The thermal performance was determined using a simulation test with an IR lamp and a field test. The results showed that they had been synthesized to nanofiber structure, increased titanium dioxide content (62.1%), and demonstrated the presence of hematite, metal oxides, and ceramics. In all thermal reflection paints, the results showed that there was a similarity in the lightness mode (L*) and blue-yellow mode (b*), which presents yellowness (0.98, 0.94) in thermal reflection paints using nanoparticles. The NIR and TSR reflectances of thermal reflection paint with nano-ilmenite were highest (56.8, 59.8%). The thermal performance properties measured using an IR camera for both samples (nano P-25 and nano-ilmenite) showed substances with low surface temperatures, indicating that they can block IR radiation. Therefore, thermal reflection paints using nano-ilmenite, which also acts as a barrier, can reduce the surface temperature. Improving thermal performance, which inhibits heat transfer or sunlight entering a building, can reduce the building's heating load demand.