Breakthrough IR Radiation Control Using Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets: Revolutionizing Thermal Management and Energy Efficiency

The research team, led by Dr. HSSR Matte and his student Priyabrata Sahoo, introduced a novel approach by integrating 2D h-BN nanoflakes into a polymer network liquid crystal.

Scientists from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru have developed a pioneering method to control and regulate infrared (IR) radiation using 2D nanosheets of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN). This innovation holds immense potential for applications in radiative heat barriers, thermal camouflage, and advanced thermal management systems, offering a sustainable solution for reducing energy demands such as air conditioning.

Why Infrared Control Matters

Infrared radiation, spanning wavelengths from 780 nm to 1000 nm, constitutes nearly 50% of solar radiation and is critical for sustaining life. However, excessive exposure to IR radiation leads to discomforting ambient temperatures and potential health risks, creating a growing demand for effective IR management in a world increasingly focused on energy efficiency and climate control.

The Breakthrough Strategy

The research team, led by Dr. HSSR Matte and his student Priyabrata Sahoo, introduced a novel approach by integrating 2D h-BN nanoflakes into a polymer network liquid crystal. The components, individually IR-transparent, are strategically assembled to create a highly effective IR regulation system under specific conditions.

Dr. Krishna Prasad and Dr. Shankar Rao, who jointly supervised the project, described the innovation as a paradigm shift in IR regulation, as it demonstrates exceptional functionality despite using fully transparent materials.

Key Features and Demonstrations

The system’s effectiveness in managing IR radiation was validated through:

1. Scattering Measurements: Indicating selective IR modulation.
2. Thermal Imaging: Confirming radiative heat control.
3. Passive Radiative Cooling: Reducing heat through IR reflection and emission.
4. Reflectivity Studies: Highlighting superior IR reflectance properties.

Numerical simulations by Dr. Sikdar at IIT Guwahati further reinforced these findings. Additionally, nanoindentation studies revealed that the material exhibits enhanced mechanical strength, making it ideal for practical deployment.

Applications and Future Potential

This cutting-edge approach has broad implications, including:

• Thermal Camouflage: Concealing heat signatures in military or surveillance contexts.
• Radiative Heat Barriers: Reducing indoor heating caused by solar IR radiation.
• Energy-Efficient Cooling Systems: Offering sustainable alternatives for air-conditioning.
• Thermal Management in Electronics: Preventing overheating in sensitive devices.

Gayathri Pishorady, a key researcher in the project, expressed optimism that the strategy could pave the way for more generic and versatile IR regulators, expanding its usability across industries.

Recognition and Patent Filing

The findings were published in the esteemed journal Materials Horizons (Mater. Horiz., 11, 554, 2024). A patent application has also been filed, signaling the potential commercialization of this innovation.

Impact on Energy and Sustainability

This development aligns with global goals for energy efficiency and sustainability. By reducing dependency on conventional cooling technologies, it promises to curb greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy consumption, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation efforts.

With its groundbreaking nature, this innovation places India at the forefront of advanced thermal management and nanotechnology-driven solutions.