How does the thermoreflective principle work?

The insulating effect is based on two effects: the reflection of radiant heat at the surface and the greatly reduced heat conduction in the embedded ceramic nanospheres.

An analogy helps: a thermos flask keeps its temperature not through thick walls but through a mirrored surface (which reflects radiant heat) and a vacuum between the walls (which suppresses heat conduction). PSCoat works on the same dual principle — only in coating thickness instead of a double wall.

What is the effect based on?

On two complementary effects: part of the incident radiant heat is reflected at the surface (thermoreflection), and the hollow ceramic nanospheres embedded in the functional layer reduce heat conduction within the material.

What does thermoreflection mean?

The coating reflects a high proportion of the incident solar radiation across the entire spectrum, including infrared radiation (Total Solar Reflectance, TSR: 92 %). As a result, less radiant heat is transferred into the substrate.

How do the spheres reduce heat conduction?

The closed ceramic nanospheres, filled with vacuum or very little gas, form barriers to heat transport. In the tiny cavities the Knudsen effect takes hold — heat conduction through gas is practically suppressed (see Chapter 23 · Materials science).

Does the facade remain breathable?

Yes. The overall build-up is vapour-permeable (system value class V2 per EN 15824); water vapour from the component can escape to the outside. For the building-physics classification see Chapter 24.