Localized crop cooling using caco3 mist technology
Innovative solution leveraging calcium carbonate mist to reflect sunlight and cool crops, designed to mitigate heat waves efficiently. This natural, cost-effective approach replicates volcanic cooling effects and is adapted for agricultural use.
Overview
Sunscreen presents a novel approach for localized crop cooling by using calcium carbonate (CaCO3) mist to reflect sunlight, thereby mitigating the effects of heat waves on farms. This method draws inspiration from natural phenomena where volcanic activity or wildfires infuse the air with reflective particles, leading to regional cooling. By deploying CaCO3 aerially, farms can achieve cost-effective temperature regulation, enhancing crop resilience against extreme heat.
Technical specifications
Calcium carbonate is chosen for its high reflectivity (80-95%) across visible and near-infrared wavelengths. Its white, crystalline structure effectively scatters solar radiation, maintaining a high albedo with minimal degradation over time. This mineral is chemically stable, resistant to weathering, and already used in large-scale agricultural applications. The methodology involves aerial or airblast sprayers, similar to those used for sulfur or pesticides, ensuring a seamless integration into existing farming practices.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory setting and is ready for small-scale field testing. Ongoing development efforts focus on optimizing the application process and understanding the meteorological interactions to maximize cooling efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
About Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a climate-tech company that provides a water-free heat wave defense system designed to mitigate extreme heat for agricultural, industrial, and urban applications. The company utilizes proprietary atmospheric science models to deploy robotic systems that reduce solar radiation and ambient temperature. Their solution is intended to protect high-margin crops, improve livestock welfare, decrease HVAC energy demands for data centers, and address extreme heat in military and urban environments. The technology employs biodegradable, non-toxic materials that are designed to be environmentally safe and effective even in drought-prone areas, offering a scalable alternative to traditional cooling methods like irrigation or shade cloths.
The company’s approach is centered on precision cooling to safeguard productivity and safety against flash heat events. By offering a water-free solution, Sunscreen addresses the critical challenge of maintaining operational resilience in water-scarce regions. The organization is led by CEO Solomon Kim and has engaged in development backed by academic and industry expertise to validate performance through monitoring and verification systems. Their work aims to turn extreme heat stress events into manageable conditions, providing a practical tool for industries where the economic and health impacts of rising temperatures are most significant.
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