Most of us are familiar with Vantablack, a paint that absorbs an astounding 99.96 percent of light. However, a group of researchers at Purdue University, led by mechanical engineering professor Xiulin Ruan, have achieved the opposite effect with a white paint that reflects 98.1 percent of solar radiation. This innovative material not only has a cooling effect but also holds potential in the fight against global warming. In fact, a version specifically designed for cars is in the works.

Unlike conventional paint, this white paint emits more infrared heat than it absorbs. The secret lies in the paint’s composition, which includes barium sulfate particles of different sizes. These particles scatter various wavelengths of solar radiation, resulting in a surface temperature that is lower than the surrounding environment.