An international team of scientists, including Australians, has developed a biodegradable material that could reduce building energy consumption by up to 20% without using electricity. The bioplastic metafilm can be applied to buildings and surfaces, passively cooling temperatures by as much as 9.2°C during peak sunlight. It reflects almost 99% of the sun’s rays and allows internal heat to escape into space. The material is made from polylactic acid, a plant-derived bioplastic, and is durable and long-lasting. Field tests in China and Australia showed an average temperature drop of 4.9°C during the day and 5.1°C at night. Simulations revealed that the metafilm could cut annual energy consumption by up to 20.3% in cities like Lhasa, China. The discovery has the potential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve human comfort while minimizing environmental impact. The researchers are now exploring large-scale manufacturing opportunities and potential applications in various fields, including buildings, transport, and biomedical. The study was published in Cell Reports Physical Science and marks a breakthrough in sustainable materials engineering.
Innovative bioplastic discovery: eco-friendly cooling film may reduce building energy consumption by up to 20%
