AI Generated Image
Cooling Pavements In Phoenix Could Come With An Unexpected Drawback
bgr.com • • science
Key Points:
- Phoenix has implemented a CoolSeal water-based sealant to coat dark asphalt streets with a lighter, heat-reflecting grey to combat the urban heat island effect by lowering pavement temperatures by 10 to 12 degrees Fahrenheit during peak heat hours.
- While the CoolSeal coating reduces surface temperatures and maintenance costs, it reflects solar heat upward, causing pedestrian areas above the treated pavement to feel about 7 degrees hotter, increasing thermal discomfort for people walking nearby.
- The reflective pavement increases mean radiant temperature, making midday conditions less comfortable for pedestrians despite cooler road surfaces.
- Urban planners suggest using the CoolSeal coating strategically on low pedestrian traffic roads and unshaded parking lots to maximize cooling benefits without negatively impacting pedestrian comfort.
- Phoenix’s experience highlights the complexity of urban heat solutions, emphasizing the need for diverse, location-specific strategies such as tree planting alongside innovative cooling technologies.
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