Continual climate change necessitates a movement toward energy savings via coatings. One method of saving energy in hot climates is to minimize the heating of buildings. This can be achieved with the application of a coating on the roof that keeps the rooftop cool while minimizing the conduction of heat and the use of air conditioning. Another way to save energy is through increasing the lifespan of a coating with heat protection. This method represents energy savings in a broader scope, as it reduces energy along the production chain.
White coatings are the obvious first choice for both of these methods, as white colorants feature the highest reflectivity of sunlight-carrying infrared (IR) waves (heat energy). The white reflects the heat energy, and the building stays cool. However, consumers like different color choices.