A recent feature in TIME highlights NanoTech Materials’ Insulative Ceramic Particle (ICP)™ technology, showcasing its role in fire protection and energy efficiency. In the article “Keeping Buildings Cool,” TIME underscores the groundbreaking capabilities of NanoTech’s Wildfire Shield and Cool Roof Coat, both of which leverage ICP technology to reduce heat penetration and enhance building resilience.
Wildfire Shield: Advanced Fire Protection for Critical Infrastructure
One of the most striking demonstrations of NanoTech’s Wildfire Shield involved coating an egg in the fire-resistant material and setting it ablaze—yet the egg remained raw. This extreme test mirrors the real-world impact of Wildfire Shield, which has already been applied in:
- SpaceX launch areas, where extreme heat exposure is a constant challenge.
- California highways, as part of the state’s wildfire prevention strategy.
- Fire-prone infrastructure projects, helping to reduce the spread of wildfires like the Park Fire, which burned 430,000 acres in July.
Beyond physical damage, Wildfire Shield also mitigates the impact of noxious smoke, improving conditions for emergency responders. As NanoTech CEO Mike Francis explains, “The smoke is a big deal because then it allows firefighters and whoever needs to get in.”
Cool Roof Coat: Scaling Energy Savings Nationwide
NanoTech’s Cool Roof Coat is another game-changing application of ICP™ technology, designed to reduce HVAC energy use by up to 50%. The paint-on coating prevents excessive heat penetration, significantly lowering cooling demands. Since March 2023, Cool Roof Coat has rapidly expanded:
- Nationwide distribution through a certified network of roofing applicators.
- International adoption, bringing energy-efficient solutions to high-temperature regions worldwide.
- Proven real-world energy savings, making it a compelling solution for businesses and municipalities looking to cut operational costs.
A Future Built on Innovation
NanoTech’s inclusion in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024 collection is a testament to its real-world impact in both fire protection and energy efficiency. With ICP technology integrated into drywall, shingles, and other materials, the company is redefining how buildings resist heat, reduce energy consumption, and protect against fire hazards.
To see the complete list of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024, visit: Best Inventions 2024
To read the full TIME article, visit: Keeping Buildings Cool
