Engineer Dexter De Castro from Naga City, Camarines Sur, has developed a groundbreaking thermal insulating powder, inspired by technology used on NASA space shuttles. This innovative product, introduced in 2019, can be applied as a coating or paint, significantly reducing indoor temperatures by 30 to 60 percent.
The insulating powder mimics the high silica, alumina, and nano-ceramic particle composition found in the ceramic tiles used on space shuttles. These materials are known for their ability to withstand extreme heat during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, thus preventing the shuttle from overheating and protecting the crew.
De Castro’s version utilizes a blend of soil and silica clay or white clay, creating an accessible and effective solution for heat insulation. In 2023, Junval Parco, a colleague of De Castro, tested the powder by applying it to walls that were directly exposed to sunlight. After just two applications, he noticed a substantial drop in temperature, which made the indoor environment significantly cooler and more comfortable.
This invention has already found applications in residential projects, where clients have reported positive outcomes, appreciating the cooler indoor temperatures achieved with just a minimal number of coatings. Currently, the powder is available for sale at P1,620 per bucket or P330 per kilogram.
Engineer De Castro is in the process of patenting his invention, which may take up to 48 months due to its unique properties. This patent registration will protect his intellectual property, ensuring that his innovative creation cannot be used without his permission.
With its promising benefits and unique approach to thermal insulation, De Castro’s invention could revolutionize how buildings are protected from heat, especially in regions with high temperature climates.