General

What is passive cooling paint?

Passive cooling paint is a specialized coating designed to reduce heat absorption from sunlight. Unlike traditional paints, it reflects a high percentage of solar radiation and emits absorbed heat back through the atmosphere into the cold of space. This reduces surface and indoor temperatures without relying on electricity or mechanical cooling systems. For a detailed explanation of how passive cooling paint works please see our Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Passive Cooling and Testing.

How does passive cooling paint work?

It works through two main principles:

• High Solar Reflectance (albedo): The paint reflects ultra-violet, visible and near-infrared sunlight, preventing surfaces from heating up.

• Thermal Emissivity: The paint emits absorbed heat as infrared radiation, often within the “atmospheric window” (8–13 μm), where heat escapes into space without warming the surrounding air.

This combination is known as Passive Daytime Radiative Cooling (PDRC). For a detailed explanation of how passive cooling paint works please see our Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Passive Cooling and Testing.

What types of surfaces can it be applied to?

Passive cooling paint can be applied to:

• Building rooftops (concrete, metal, asphalt or over waterproofing systems such as EPDM or TPO)

• Walls and facades

• Industrial warehouses

• Vehicles and equipment housings

• Agricultural structures like greenhouses and chicken coops

How much can it reduce temperatures?

Laboratory and field tests show reductions of 5–12°C (9–22°F) on surface temperatures compared to conventional white paints. In some climates, interior cooling loads can drop by 10–30%, depending on insulation, ventilation, and local weather.

Is passive cooling paint the same as “white paint”?

Not exactly. While white paint reflects visible light, passive cooling paints are engineered to reflect a broader spectrum of solar radiation—including near-infrared—and to radiate heat efficiently. This makes them more effective than standard white paints.

How is performance measured?

Performance is usually measured using:

• Solar Reflectance (SR): Proportion of sunlight reflected (0–1 scale).

• Thermal Emissivity (ε): Ability to emit heat as infrared radiation (0–1 scale).

• Solar Reflectance Index (SRI): A combined metric of reflectance and emissivity. Higher SRI = cooler surface.

For a detailed explanation of how passive cooling paint works please see our Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Passive Cooling and Testing.

How long does passive cooling paint last?

Durability varies by formulation and environment, but premium products often last 7–10 years before requiring reapplication. Factors such as UV exposure, pollution, and mechanical wear can shorten lifespan.

Is passive cooling paint environmentally friendly?

Yes, most are water-based and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds), making them safer for people and ecosystems. By reducing reliance on air conditioning, they also help cut greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy bills.

For more details see our articles on environmental sustainability. 

Can passive cooling paint replace air conditioning?

No, it’s not a full replacement but a complementary solution. It lowers the baseline temperature, reducing how often or how hard air conditioning systems need to run. This leads to significant energy savings and longer HVAC lifespan.

Is it effective in all climates?

Passive cooling paint works best in hot, sunny, and dry climates. In humid or cloudy areas, benefits may be smaller but still measurable. Some advanced formulations are being tested for year-round performance, including in temperate zones.

How much does passive cooling paint cost?

Prices vary by brand and application type, but generally it costs 10–50% more than conventional exterior paints. However, energy savings over time often offset the higher upfront cost.

How is passive cooling paint it applied?

Application is similar to traditional paint:

• Clean and prepare the surface

• Prime the surface with Pirta Primer

• Apply with a brush, or spray

• Recommended multiple coats for maximum reflectivity

Some industrial applications may require primers or specialized coatings underneath.

Can it be tinted or only white?

Traditionally, cooling paints are white for maximum reflectance. However, new technologies allow for colored passive cooling paints that maintain high reflectivity in the infrared spectrum while appearing in visible colors.

Are there limitations or downsides to passive cooling paint?

Yes, some challenges include:

• Durability concerns in polluted or dusty environments (reduced reflectivity over time).

• Aesthetic limitations, since bright white is still the most efficient.

• Moisture and dirt accumulation, which can reduce performance if not cleaned.

Who is using passive cooling paint today?

• Commercial facilities such as warehouses, shopping centers, and offices.

• Agriculture and livestock operations (e.g., barns, coops, greenhouses).

• Large-scale pilots with corporations and city governments to address urban heat island effects.

• Residential homeowners looking to reduce energy bills.

Passive Cooling in Warehouses

How much can passive cooling paint lower warehouse temperatures?

Field studies show warehouse rooftops coated with passive cooling paint can be 5–12°C (9–22°F) cooler than traditional roofs. Inside the building, temperature reductions of 2–7°C (4–13°F) are common, depending on insulation and ventilation.

What impact does this have on energy use and costs?

By lowering indoor temperatures, passive cooling paint reduces the need for air conditioning or ventilation systems. Energy savings of 10–30% on cooling costs have been reported in hot climates. This can translate into substantial operational savings for warehouses with high energy loads.

Does passive cooling paint improve worker comfort and safety?

Yes. Warehouses often struggle with heat buildup, especially in summer. By reducing indoor temperatures, passive cooling paint helps maintain safer, more comfortable conditions for workers, lowering risks of heat stress and improving productivity.

For more information read our articles on warehouse safety and passive cooling paint. 

How long does passive cooling paint last on a warehouse roof?

High-quality formulations typically last 7–10 years, depending on local climate and roof conditions. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve reflectivity and extend lifespan.

Is it only available in white, or can warehouses choose different colors?

White is the most efficient option for maximum cooling. However, newer formulations allow for tinted versions that retain good thermal performance while offering more design flexibility for branding or zoning requirements.

How is passive cooling paint applied to warehouse roofs?

Application is similar to industrial coatings:

1. Roof cleaning and surface preparation (removing dust, oils, or existing loose coatings).

2. Applying primer if required.

3. Spreading or brushing 1–2 coats of passive cooling paint.

4. Allowing full curing before exposure to heavy rain or foot traffic.

Does passive cooling paint require special maintenance?

Not much—just periodic inspections and occasional cleaning. Dust, soot, or organic buildup can reduce reflectivity, so rinsing or light cleaning may be recommended every 1–2 years.

Will passive cooling paint affect warehouse roofing warranties?

This depends on the roof type and the manufacturer’s warranty terms. Some roof manufacturers may require compatible primers or approvals. It’s best to consult both the paint supplier and the roofing provider before application.

What climates see the most benefit for warehouses?

Warehouses in hot, sunny climates (e.g., southern U.S., Mediterranean, Middle East, Australia, South Asia) gain the most benefit. In temperate or cooler climates, benefits are smaller but can still contribute to lower summer cooling costs and reduced heat island effects.

How does passive cooling paint compare to other cool roof solutions (like membranes or tiles)?

• Advantages: More affordable upfront, easy to apply over existing roofs, lower installation disruption.

• Limitations: May need reapplication sooner than membranes; performance can degrade with dirt buildup.

For many warehouses, passive cooling paint is a cost-effective entry point into cool roof technology.

Is passive cooling paint environmentally friendly?

Yes. Most modern formulations are water-based, low-VOC, and non-toxic. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions indirectly by lowering energy use for cooling. Some products are tested for recyclability or cradle-to-cradle sustainability certifications.

For more details see our articles on environmental sustainability. 

Can it help with corporate ESG or sustainability goals?

Absolutely. By reducing energy use, passive cooling paint contributes to Scope 2 emissions reductions. It can also be reported under green building certifications (LEED, BREEAM, WELL) and supports climate resilience strategies against rising heat.

For more details see our articles on environmental sustainability. 

What are the cost considerations for warehouse owners?

• Material cost: Typically 10–50% more than standard exterior paints.

• Installation cost: Similar to industrial painting jobs, with minimal downtime.

• ROI: Often 2–5 years, depending on energy prices, local climate, and building size.

Are any major logistics or retail companies using passive cooling paint in warehouses?

Yes. Several large logistics, retail, and e-commerce firms are piloting or scaling passive cooling paints on fulfillment centers and warehouses to reduce operational costs and heat exposure. Adoption is increasing, especially in regions facing extreme heat.

Passive Cooling Data Centers

Why is passive cooling paint relevant for data centers?

Data centers are among the largest energy consumers in buildings worldwide, with up to 40–60% of energy use dedicated to cooling. Passive cooling paint lowers the thermal load on the building envelope, reducing how hard mechanical cooling systems need to work. This improves energy efficiency, reduces operational costs, and supports sustainability targets.

How much can passive cooling paint lower data center roof and wall temperatures?

On average, passive cooling paint can reduce roof surface temperatures by 5–12°C (9–22°F) compared to conventional coatings. This results in 2–5°C (4–9°F) reductions in internal air temperatures in supporting areas or non-critical zones. While critical server rooms remain tightly climate-controlled, the lowered baseline reduces demand on HVAC/CRAC systems.

Can passive cooling paint reduce energy consumption in data centers?

Yes. By reducing external heat gain, passive cooling paint decreases cooling system loads. Studies in hot climates show 10–20% reductions in cooling energy demand, depending on local conditions, building insulation, and HVAC design.

Read our articles on passive cooling paint for data centres.

Does it affect the precision cooling systems inside the data center?

No. Passive cooling paint does not replace precision cooling but supports it by lowering incoming thermal loads. This means:

• HVAC/CRAC units cycle less frequently.

• Free cooling systems (air-side or water-side economizers) become more effective.

• Redundancy systems (N+1) experience reduced strain, improving resilience.

How does passive cooling paint impact uptime and reliability?

Data centers prioritize up-time (99.999% availability). By reducing thermal stress on cooling systems and minimizing temperature spikes during peak heat events, passive cooling paint provides an additional layer of resilience, decreasing risks of overheating or unplanned downtime.

What role does passive cooling paint play in sustainability and ESG goals?

Applying passive cooling paint contributes to:

• Reduced Scope 2 emissions from lower energy use.

• Compliance with green building standards (LEED, BREEAM, ENERGY STAR).

• Progress toward corporate net-zero commitments.

• Mitigating the urban heat island effect around large data facilities.

How long does passive cooling paint last on a data center roof?

Premium formulations typically last 7–10 years before reapplication. Maintenance involves periodic cleaning to remove dirt, dust, or organic buildup that reduces reflectivity.

How does it compare to other data center cooling strategies?

• Liquid cooling / immersion cooling: Highly efficient for racks but complex and costly to deploy.

• Free cooling (air or water): Effective in cool climates, less so in hot/humid regions.

• Passive cooling paint: Low-cost, non-invasive measure that works across all climates and complements existing strategies.

Passive cooling paint is not a replacement for these methods but a supportive, first-layer solution that lowers external heat stress.

Can passive cooling paint be applied during operations without downtime?

Yes. Application is performed on the building envelope (roofs, walls, sometimes HVAC housings), not on IT hardware. Roof painting can usually be scheduled to avoid disruptions and does not require downtime of IT operations.

Is white the only option, or are other colors available for branding/security?

While bright white is most efficient, some manufacturers now offer tinted passive cooling coatings that maintain high infrared reflectivity. This allows data centers to meet branding, aesthetic, or camouflage requirements without major performance trade-offs.

Are there security or compliance issues with reflective roofs on data centers?

Data center operators sometimes have concerns about glare, aerial visibility, or regulatory compliance. Advanced coatings can minimize visible glare while maximizing infrared reflectivity. Consultation with local building codes and zoning laws is recommended before application.

What is the ROI (Return on Investment) for data centers?

ROI depends on location and cooling load. In hot climates, payback can occur within 2–4 years from energy savings alone. Additional ROI comes from:

• Extended HVAC/CRAC equipment lifespan (less strain).

• Lower risk of downtime due to thermal stress.

• ESG reporting value (carbon reduction).

Does passive cooling paint help edge data centers or modular facilities?

Yes. Smaller or modular data centers often lack the advanced cooling infrastructure of hyperscale facilities. Passive cooling paint can significantly reduce external thermal stress, making it an ideal retrofit solution for edge deployments, telecom hubs, and containerized data centers.

Are major data center operators adopting this technology?

Yes. Several hyperscale and colocation providers are piloting passive cooling paint on large facilities, especially in heat-prone regions such as the U.S. Southwest, Southern Europe, and Southeast Asia. Adoption is also tied to corporate sustainability and net-zero goals.

What are the limitations for data center applications?

• Most effective in hot, sunny climates. Less impact in cold or cloudy regions.

• Regular cleaning needed to maintain reflectivity.

• Not a standalone cooling solution—always used in combination with active cooling.

Passive Cooling in Shipping

 How does passive cooling paint benefit cargo shipping?

• Cargo protection: Sensitive goods (electronics, food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals) stay within safer temperature ranges during transport.

• Fuel savings: Refrigerated (reefer) containers and ship HVAC systems require less energy.

• Reduced emissions: Lower cooling demand translates into reduced CO₂ and greenhouse gas emissions.

• Equipment longevity: Less thermal stress on container walls, decks, and HVAC units extends service life.

How much can it reduce surface and container temperatures?

Testing shows passive cooling paint can reduce surface temperatures by 5–12°C (9–22°F) compared to standard paints. Inside containers, temperature drops of 2–7°C (4–13°F) are possible, significantly lowering heat stress on cargo.

Can passive cooling paint reduce fuel consumption in ships?

Yes. By lowering HVAC and reefer cooling loads, fuel consumption decreases. While savings vary, ships using passive cooling paint may achieve 3–8% reductions in fuel use for cooling systems, which is significant at scale.

Is passive cooling paint suitable for marine environments?

Yes, provided it is formulated for saltwater and UV resistance. Marine-grade versions offer:

• Resistance to salt spray and corrosion

• Anti-fouling compatibility on decks and superstructures

• Long-term durability under harsh sunlight and weather

How does it help refrigerated (reefer) containers?

Reefer units consume large amounts of energy to maintain cold conditions. Passive cooling paint reduces heat gain, which:

• Cuts reefer energy use

• Lowers refrigeration unit strain

• Helps maintain more stable temperatures during power outages or port delays

Can it be applied to standard (non-refrigerated) shipping containers?

Yes. Applying passive cooling paint to dry containers reduces interior heat, protecting temperature-sensitive goods without refrigeration. This is especially valuable in intermodal shipping where containers spend time on hot docks or rail yards.

How long does passive cooling paint last in shipping applications?

Durability depends on environment, but 5–10 years is typical for marine-grade products. Regular washing to remove salt and dirt buildup helps maintain reflectivity.

Does it add weight or affect ship performance?

No significant impact. Passive cooling paint is lightweight and applied like conventional coatings, with negligible effect on vessel tonnage or hydrodynamics.

How is it applied in the shipping industry?

• New builds: Applied at shipyards during construction.

• Retrofits: Applied during routine maintenance, container refurbishment, or drydock cycles.

• Application method: Spray, roller, or brush, similar to standard marine coatings.

Can passive cooling paint be colored for shipping company branding?

Yes. While bright white provides maximum cooling, advanced formulations allow for tinted coatings that still reflect infrared radiation, enabling brand colors on containers or vessels without sacrificing performance.

How does passive cooling paint support ESG and decarbonization goals?

• Lower fuel use = reduced Scope 1 emissions (direct from ships).

• Lower energy demand in ports and warehouses = reduced Scope 2 emissions.

• Supports IMO 2050 decarbonization targets by reducing auxiliary power needs.

• Helps shipping companies demonstrate innovation and sustainability leadership.

What is the ROI for shipping companies?

ROI depends on use case:

• Cargo ships: Lower HVAC loads → reduced fuel costs.

• Reefers: Energy savings per container can add up across fleets.

• Ports: Cooler warehouses and storage yards reduce electricity bills.

Typical ROI is 2–5 years, with faster payback in hot climates or for reefer-heavy fleets.

Are there safety benefits for shipping crews?

Yes. Cooler decks, cabins, and work areas improve crew comfort, reduce heat stress risks, and support compliance with maritime labor safety standards.

Are major shipping companies using passive cooling paint?

Yes. Early adoption is underway with global logistics firms, container manufacturers, and shipbuilders. Some pilot programs are testing large-scale use on containers and vessels to evaluate performance, energy savings, and durability in marine conditions.

Passive Cooling in Energy

How does passive cooling paint work in energy applications?

It uses high solar reflectance to minimize heat absorption and high thermal emissivity to release absorbed heat as infrared radiation. On equipment and structures, this reduces surface and internal temperatures, lowering thermal stress and energy demand.

What types of assets can benefit from passive cooling paint?

• Oil & Gas: Storage tanks, pipelines, offshore platforms, refineries.

• Power Generation: Cooling towers, turbine housings, transformer yards.

• Renewables: Solar inverters, battery storage units, wind turbine housings.

• Utilities: Substations, distribution equipment, control rooms, water treatment plants.

How much can it reduce equipment or surface temperatures?

Field studies show surface temperature reductions of 5–12°C (9–22°F). For equipment like storage tanks and transformers, this can lower internal fluid or component temperatures by 2–8°C (4–15°F), reducing cooling demand and extending operational life.

Can passive cooling paint reduce energy losses in power systems?

Yes. Electrical equipment like transformers, switchgear, and inverters perform less efficiently when overheated. Keeping them cooler reduces resistive losses, prevents overheating trips, and improves reliability.

Does it reduce cooling energy demand at facilities?

Yes. In energy plants, substations, or control rooms, passive cooling paint lowers building envelope heat gain. This reduces HVAC load, leading to 10–25% cooling energy savings, especially in hot climates.

Is passive cooling paint compatible with large storage tanks?

Yes. Oil, gas, and chemical storage tanks coated with passive cooling paint maintain cooler surface and liquid temperatures. This:

• Reduces evaporation losses (VOC emissions)

• Improves worker safety near tanks

• Helps meet environmental compliance standards

How does passive cooling paint help with renewable energy operations?

• Solar farms: Keeps inverter housings cooler, improving uptime and efficiency.

• Battery storage systems: Reduces cooling loads and risk of thermal runaway.

• Wind turbines: Protects nacelles and electronics from overheating in hot climates.

What are the environmental and ESG benefits?

• Lower energy use = reduced Scope 2 emissions

• Reduced refrigerant use in HVAC systems → less leakage of potent greenhouse gases

• Reduced VOC emissions from fuel storage tanks

• Supports corporate ESG reporting and net-zero commitments

How long does passive cooling paint last in industrial energy applications?

Typically 7–10 years in harsh conditions, with proper maintenance. Marine/offshore versions are formulated for salt, UV, and chemical resistance.

Does passive cooling paint add operational complexity?

No. It is applied like conventional industrial coatings (spray, brush, or roller). Maintenance involves occasional inspections and cleaning to preserve reflectivity. It integrates easily into scheduled maintenance or new build projects.

How does it compare to other cooling strategies in the energy sector?

• Active cooling systems: More precise, but costly and energy-intensive.

• Insulation: Reduces heat gain but can degrade under UV.

• Passive cooling paint: Low-cost, complementary solution that reduces heat load before active systems engage.

Best results come when combined with insulation and active cooling systems.

What about safety benefits?

• Worker safety: Cooler surfaces reduce burn risks on equipment.

• Fire risk: Lower surface temperatures reduce chances of volatile vapors igniting.

• Equipment safety: Decreases risk of overheating-related failures.

What is the ROI for energy companies?

ROI varies by application:

• Storage tanks: Reduced evaporation losses can pay back in 1–3 years.

• Facilities: Energy savings typically offset costs in 2–5 years.

• Transformers & inverters: Reduced equipment failure and extended life reduce replacement and downtime costs.

Are major energy companies using passive cooling paint?

Yes. Pilot projects and deployments are underway with:

• Oil & gas majors testing it on refineries and storage tanks.

• Utilities applying it to substations and transformers.

• Renewable operators trialing it on solar and battery storage sites.
  Adoption is accelerating as companies seek low-cost decarbonization and resilience solutions.

Passive Cooling in Cryogenic Storage

How much temperature reduction can passive cooling paint provide?

On large cryogenic tanks, passive cooling paint can reduce external surface temperatures by 5–12°C (9–22°F) compared to standard paints. This translates into measurable reductions in boil-off rates (often 5–15% lower) and less energy required for active cooling systems.

Which cryogenic assets benefit most from passive cooling paint?

• Large LNG storage tanks at terminals or liquefaction plants

• Liquid hydrogen tanks for industrial and mobility applications

• Cryogenic pipelines exposed to sun and ambient heat

• ISO containers & road tankers for LNG/LH₂ transport

• Medical cryogenic storage tanks (oxygen, nitrogen, CO₂) used in hospitals and labs

How does passive cooling paint improve safety?

• Reduces surface temperature and radiant heat load, lowering risk of pressure buildup.

• Decreases thermal cycling stress on tank walls and insulation.

• Lowers flammability risk near LNG and LH₂ by reducing localized hot spots.

• Improves worker safety by reducing radiant heat exposure around tanks.

Does it replace insulation systems in cryogenic storage?

No. Passive cooling paint is a complementary layer that reduces external heat load. It does not replace vacuum jackets, multilayer insulation (MLI), or perlite/foam systems. Instead, it reduces the thermal stress on insulation, prolonging its effectiveness and extending maintenance cycles.

Can it reduce boil-off gas (BOG) in LNG and hydrogen tanks?

Yes. By lowering the heat flux into the tank, passive cooling paint reduces BOG generation rates. This decreases:

• Product losses (fuel that must be vented, flared, or reliquefied)

• Energy demand for reliquefaction units

• Venting emissions (methane slip for LNG, hydrogen release for LH₂)

How does it help with hydrogen storage specifically?

Hydrogen is extremely sensitive to thermal fluctuations due to its small molecular size and rapid boil-off. Passive cooling paint:

• Keeps tank surfaces cooler, reducing hydrogen losses.

• Lowers refrigeration demand for liquid hydrogen depots and fueling stations.

• Supports safety compliance by reducing boil-off pressures.

Is passive cooling paint durable enough for cryogenic applications?

Yes, provided industrial-grade, cryogenic-compatible formulations are used. These paints are engineered to resist:

• UV radiation and sunlight exposure

• Salt spray in coastal LNG terminals

• Chemical exposure (ammonia, CO₂, hydrocarbons)

• Mechanical stress from thermal expansion and contraction

Typical service life: 7–10 years with proper maintenance.

How does it fit into ESG and sustainability goals?

• Reduced product losses: Lower BOG = higher efficiency and lower methane slip.

• Lower energy use: Cuts electricity or fuel needed for refrigeration/reliquefaction.

• Emission reduction: Supports net-zero targets in LNG and hydrogen value chains.

• Safer working conditions: Contributes to occupational safety standards.

Can passive cooling paint be applied to existing tanks or only new builds?

It can be applied to both.

• New builds: Integrated during tank construction.

• Retrofits: Applied during scheduled tank maintenance or repainting cycles.
  Application is similar to standard industrial coatings (spray, roller, or brush).

How does it affect cryogenic transport (ISO containers & tankers)?

For mobile cryogenic tanks, passive cooling paint helps:

• Keep internal temperatures stable during long hauls.

• Reduce boil-off rates in LNG or LH₂ transport.

• Extend refrigeration hold times for medical or industrial gases.

This lowers energy use for onboard refrigeration and improves safety in transit.

What are the ROI drivers for cryogenic storage operators?

• Fuel/product savings: Reduced LNG or LH₂ losses from boil-off.

• Energy efficiency: Lower refrigeration or reliquefaction costs.

• Equipment lifespan: Reduced stress on insulation and refrigeration units.

• Compliance: Easier alignment with methane reduction initiatives and hydrogen safety regulations.

Payback is typically 2–4 years, depending on climate, tank size, and product volatility.

Are there limitations to applying passive cooling paint in cryogenic storage?

• Works best in hot, sunny climates (Middle East, Asia-Pacific, U.S. Gulf Coast).

• Surface dirt buildup reduces reflectivity → periodic cleaning required.

• Must be compatible with cryogenic insulation systems (consult coating and tank manufacturers).

Are major cryogenic operators using passive cooling paint?

Yes. Early adoption is happening in:

• LNG terminals in Asia and the Middle East

• Hydrogen fueling and storage pilot sites in Europe and Japan

• Industrial gas producers for large liquid oxygen/nitrogen tanks

• Medical cryogenic storage facilities for backup oxygen in hospitals

Does passive cooling paint improve regulatory compliance?

Yes. It supports compliance with:

• API 625 / 620 / 650 (LNG tank standards) by reducing thermal loading

• IMO IGF Code (shipboard LNG fuel storage safety) by mitigating BOG

• Hydrogen safety standards (ISO/TR 15916) by lowering thermal risk factors

• EPA methane reduction rules (via lower BOG emissions from LNG tanks)