REVOLUTIONIZING ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN BUILDINGAND CONSTRUCTION

The Innovative Approach to Using
Titanium Dioxide in ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

Introduction
In the quest for more sustainable and energy-efficientbuilding solutions, the construction industry continually
faces challenges regarding traditional materials’
performance and environmental impact. This white
paper outlines the groundbreaking approach todeveloping dark-colored rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
profiles that maintain aesthetic integrity and contributesignificantly to energy management through enhanced
solar reflectance. By utilizing these innovative profiles,
buildings can enjoy longer life cycles, generateless plastic waste, and achieve reduced energy
consumption, marking a pivotal shift towards a moresustainable future.

2

Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Construction: The Innovative Approach to ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

1

The Challenges of DarkColored PVC Materials
Traditionally, dark-colored PVC materials
absorb more heat, leading to higher
surface temperatures, increased thermal
degradation, and shortened material
lifespans. These qualities compromise thematerial’s structural integrity and aesthetic
appeal and increase cooling loads, reducing
overall energy efficiency in buildings.

2

Innovative MaterialSolutions
Our study, conducted in collaboration
with industry leaders Vibrantz,Baerlocher, and Chemours, introduces
an optimized formulation approach thatleverages the synergy between inorganic
color pigments, titanium dioxide (TiO2),
and a unique combination of stabilizers
and lubricants.
This innovative formulation improves thesolar reflectance of dark-colored PVC,
reducing heat absorption and contributing
to the material’s ‘cool’ properties.

3Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Construction: The Innovative Approach to ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

3Formulationand Testing
The research focused on developing
six different formulations, varying thecombinations of standard and optimized
stabilizers and pigments, to identify themost effective solution for enhancing
the mechanical properties and weather
resistance of PVC profiles. Detailed analysis
was conducted on each formulation,
examining factors such as thermal stability,
impact strength, and color consistency toensure that the ‘cool’ PVC materials meetthe highest industry standards.

14.0

Colour difference

Delta L*
Delta a*Delta b*9.0

4.0-1.0-6.0

Std -

Std

Std +Cool -CoolCool+Figure 1: Color differences ∆L*, ∆a*, and ∆b* in Xenon-M after 5000 h.

4Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Construction: The Innovative Approach to ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

Results andImplications

4

The results of our study demonstrate thatthe optimized formulations significantly
outperform standard PVC materials in termsof solar reflectance and thermal efficiency.
By reducing the heat buildup in dark-coloredPVC, these ‘cool’ materials contribute tolower surface temperatures, reduced energy
consumption for cooling, and improved
overall building energy efficiency.

100%

Gloss retention [%]

90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%0%

Std -Std

Std +Cool -CoolCool+Figure 2: Gloss retention after one year of outdoor exposure in Barcelona (BCN).

5Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Construction: The Innovative Approach to ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

5The Future of ‘Cool’ PVC
Materials
The implications of this research extend far
beyond the immediate benefits of improved
energy efficiency and material longevity.
By introducing ‘cool’ PVC materials into
the market, we pave the way for moresustainable construction practices, offeringarchitects, builders, and homeowners
innovative solutions that align with global
sustainability goals.

Conclusion
Significant advancements have been made in developing energy-efficient, dark-colored PVC
materials. By embracing the innovative formulations presented, the construction industry cansignificantly reduce buildings’ environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic versatility andstructural integrity. We invite stakeholders across the construction value chain to join us in thistransformative journey toward a more sustainable future.

6Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Construction: The Innovative Approach to ‘Cool’ PVC Materials

About Ti-Pure™
At Chemours, we build trust for our customers at every turn. We deliver the highest
standard of TiO2 partnership, combining quality product, reliable supply, andexpert service to drive long-term value for customers around the world in coatings,
plastics, and laminates applications. Built on a foundation of stability, our timetested partnership model has been proven for nearly a century to save production
schedules, solve problems, and stabilize supply in a turbulent market.
Time Tested. Market Trusted. TiO2 you can count on.
For more information, visit tipure.com or contact us at tipure.com/en/contact-us.

www.tipure.com