Description

The Passive Radiative Thermostat (PRT) is a smart, electricity-free coating technology from scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory that automatically regulates temperature by adjusting how it absorbs and emits heat based on ambient conditions. Using a thermochromic phase-change material combined with engineered thin-film layers that control solar and infrared radiation, the system cools surfaces on hot days by reflecting sunlight and releasing heat to the sky and warms them on cold days by absorbing sunlight and minimizing heat loss — all without sensors, controls or power input. Designed for integration into roofs, facades, windows, vehicles and outdoor equipment, the technology offers a scalable, low-maintenance pathway to reduce HVAC energy consumption, lower peak electrical loads, improve thermal comfort and support decarbonization goals across building, mobility and industrial markets. How it Works: Passive Radiative Thermostat is a temperature-responsive surface coating that automatically adjusts how it manages heat based on surrounding conditions. PRT incorporates a material that naturally changes its thermal behavior at a preset temperature, allowing the surface to release excess heat when it is hot and retain warmth when it is cold. By intelligently interacting with sunlight and infrared heat, the system stabilizes surface temperature without requiring electricity, sensors or moving parts. The result is a passive, self-regulating thermal control approach that improves temperature management. Key Advantages: Automatic temperature regulation No power required Year-round performance Energy savings potential Thin-film compatibility Scalable and low maintenance Market Applications: Building & Construction (roofs, facades, exterior surfaces, window systems) Automotive & Transportation (vehicle exteriors, cabin surfaces, transport equipment) Energy & Utilities (power equipment enclosures, storage systems, grid infrastructure) Industrial & Manufacturing (outdoor equipment, tanks, processing facilities) Data Centers & Telecommunications (equipment shelters, edge computing enclosures) Consumer & Outdoor Products (electronics housings, smart devices, outdoor installations) Development Status: TRL 2 US Patent No. 11,359,839 LA-UR-26-23177 Learn More: https://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7647/adc9eb LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products. LANL's licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations. Patented and patent pending inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov. Note: T…

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