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Solar spectral optical properties of pigments—Part II: survey of common colorants

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date Published

12/2005

Authors

Levinson, Ronnen M, Paul H Berdahl, Hashem Akbari

DOI

10.1016/j.solmat.2004.11.013

Abstract

Various pigments are characterized by determination of parameters S (backscattering) and K (absorption) as functions of wavelength in the solar spectral range of 300–2500 nm. Measured values of S for generic titanium dioxide (rutile) white pigment are in rough agreement with values computed from the Mie theory, supplemented by a simple multiple scattering model. Pigments in widespread use are examined, with particular emphasis on those that may be useful for formulating non-white materials that can reflect the near-infrared (NIR) portion of sunlight, such as the complex inorganic color pigments (mixed metal oxides). These materials remain cooler in sunlight than comparable NIR-absorbing colors. NIR-absorptive pigments are to be avoided. High NIR reflectance can be produced by a reflective metal substrate, an NIR-reflective underlayer, and/or by the use of a pigment that scatters strongly in the NIR.

Journal

Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells

Volume

Year of Publication

2005

Issue

Organization

Building Technologies Department, Building Technology and Urban Systems Division, Heat Island, Windows and Envelope Materials

Research Areas

BTUS Cool Roofs and Walls