Passive Radiative Cooling Materials with Special Focus on the Reduction of Urban Heat Island Effect: A Current Summarized Classification of Need, Approaches and Characterization Methods

Abstract

Rapidly rising global temperatures and the intensification of the urban heat island (UHI) effect necessitate new, energy-efficient solutions to mitigate heat stress in cities. Passive radiative cooling (PRC) offers a highly promising, low-energy pathway to achieve sub-ambient temperatures by reflecting incoming solar radiation while emitting long-wave infrared radiation through the atmospheric infrared window. This review summarizes key aspects of PRC and its role in reducing UHI impacts. Furthermore the fundamental physics of heat transfer and radiative heat exchange, including the materials properties such as solar reflectance and thermal emissivity which are correlated with the figures of merit, temperature drop below ambient temperature and cooling power. A comprehensive classification of current PRC materials is presented based on both structural architectures and physical effects. Additionally an overview on measurement techniques are employed to determine the performance of PRC materials, focusing on the key performance indicators. For this purpose in-field as wells as laboratory measurement techniques are introduced and opportunities in standardizing testing protocols are highlighted. Finally, future research directions are outlined, focusing on novel material development, theoretical advancements, scalable fabrication processes, and integration strategies within urban infrastructures. These innovations are important for enhancing building energy efficiency, reducing urban heat stress, and promoting sustainable urban development in the face of climate change.