Designing better paint with a simple model that tracks light absorption and scattering

What is it about?

Cloudy materials (like clouds and paint) scatter AND absorb light. We wanted to be able to accurately estimate both effects, but existing methods were either very slow or left out one of the effects. We were able to extend an existing efficient method to account for both effects. This allowed us to make predictions about the effect of the size and arrangement of particles in paint. Putting bigger particles on top of smaller particles reduces absorption, which should make the paint better at keeping buildings cool.

Featured Image

Photo by Alexandre Chambon on Unsplash

Photo by Alexandre Chambon on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Tracking the light energy lost to absorption and scattering in clouds and paint is useful for climate/weather prediction and for making better paint. By developing a better model we were able to show one strategy to make a paint that reflects more infrared light, which can help to keep buildings cool in hot climates.