As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the demand for advanced thermal management technologies has never been more urgent. Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, led by Prof. Han Zhou and Prof. Di Zhang, have published a comprehensive review on radiative cooling materials designed for extreme environments, offering a roadmap for next-generation cooling solutions that operate efficiently in the harshest conditions on Earth—and beyond.
Why Radiative Cooling Matters in Extreme Environments
Radiative cooling is a passive thermal management strategy that allows surfaces to dissipate heat by emitting infrared radiation directly into space, without consuming energy. In extreme environments—such as deserts, high-altitude aircraft, or outer space—traditional cooling systems often fail due to high temperatures, intense UV radiation, or lack of atmosphere.
This review highlights how micro- and nano-structured materials can be engineered to selectively emit and reflect thermal radiation, enabling efficient cooling even under intense solar irradiance, high humidity, or vacuum conditions.
Key Innovations and Material Strategies
The review systematically explores four major environmental categories:
Applications and Future Outlook
These materials are not just lab-scale curiosities—they are being integrated into building coatings, personal cooling textiles, aircraft skins, and spacecraft thermal shields. The review also outlines future directions, including:
Conclusion
This comprehensive review provides a strategic framework for designing next-generation radiative cooling materials that can thrive in the most extreme environments. By combining materials science, photonics, and thermal engineering, the authors lay the groundwork for energy-efficient, passive cooling technologies that could revolutionize everything from urban infrastructure to space exploration.
Stay tuned for more cutting-edge research from Prof. Han Zhou and Prof. Di Zhang at Shanghai Jiao Tong University!
Nano-Micro Letters
Experimental study
Radiative Cooling Materials for Extreme Environmental Applications
7-Jul-2025