Reducing Solar Heat Loads
Solar radiation is a general term for the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. Some of the solar radiation is absorbed, while the remainder is reflected.
Absorbed solar radiation is typically converted to thermal energy, causing an increase in an object's temperature. White pigmented coatings reflect visible wavelength and still absorb infrared and near-infrared wavelengths. Ceramic-based insulation coating also reflects most infrared wavelengths for more effective blocking of up to 80% of solar heat loading. A key aspect of blocking solar-based heat loading is use of the coating on exterior surfaces to prevent radiation of structure (roof or wall envelope) and mass-based insulation. The mass-based insulation will absorb heat energy until saturated and then radiate that heat into the building envelope. Preventing or reducing that heat transfer into the building envelope will make the overall insulation package much more efficient.
Application on liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tanks to reduce solar heat loading and use of water-based quenching systems is another proven application for fuel storage facilities.