The whitest white paint ever is also the coolest

A photo of houses painted white on the side of a hill

Source: © Bernard Haettel/500px/Getty Images

How paint made with barium sulfate could reduce the need for air conditioning

The world’s whitest white paint ever could provide a way to cool buildings and reduce the need for air conditioning. The paint uses barium sulfate, and the different sizes of those particles contribute to its high reflectance. 

Use this slide with your class and show your students a new context for exploring particle size and nanoparticles, or as an example of uses of ionic substances.

Make your lessons pop

Choose an account option to continue exploring our full range of articles and teaching resources

Free

Free access for everyone, everywhere. If you only need a few resources, start here.


What's included

  • One free teaching resource each month
  • Five free Education in Chemistry articles each month
  • Personalised email alerts and bookmarks