In a revolutionary breakthrough for sustainable cooling, scientists have developed the world’s whitest paint — a powerful innovation that reflects 98% of sunlight, reducing the need for air conditioning and potentially transforming the future of climate-friendly architecture.
Developed by a team of researchers at Purdue University, the paint uses barium sulfate, a compound also used in photo paper and cosmetics, to achieve its ultra-white appearance. When applied to rooftops and exterior walls, the paint can lower surface temperatures by up to 8°C (14°F) below ambient temperatures, even under direct sunlight.
According to the lead researcher, Dr. Xiulin Ruan, “This paint can make spaces cooler than their surroundings without consuming any energy — it’s essentially passive air conditioning.”
What makes this paint revolutionary is its ability to radiate infrared heat away from the Earth, a process known as radiative cooling. Unlike traditional air conditioners that consume electricity and release heat, this paint offers an energy-free alternative to keep buildings cool — especially vital in heatwave-prone urban areas.
Experts believe this innovation could reduce global energy demand significantly if widely adopted on rooftops, pavements, and vehicles.
The paint has already entered the Guinness World Records as the whitest paint ever created and is expected to hit commercial markets soon. Researchers are working with manufacturers to scale production and make it affordable for widespread use — especially in developing countries vulnerable to rising temperatures.
With this innovation, science has found a way to fight the heat with a brushstroke — no power, no pollution, just pure brilliance.
