An overview of analytical models for thermal/ Vis-NIR radiation transfer through nanopigment coated non-metallic materials

Particulate films and coatings have received growing attention in a wide range of optical applications, mainly those that involve passive heating and cooling strategies (e.g., cool coatings for textiles and roofing). They provide a promising sustainable solution, not only in terms of performance but also in terms of cost and feasibility for serious environmental issues such as the Urban Heat Island effect. Accurate prediction of radiation transfer, on the other hand, is a key factor in the design and development of particulate media with predetermined optical properties. This prediction is classified into two categories: analytical and numerical methods, which necessitate the consideration of various aspects. Accordingly, this paper highlights the significant effect of pigment particles on the light scattering behavior of particulate media and explores the influence of parameters that can tune the efficiency of radiation transfer. It also reviews the advancements achieved in this topic across different investigated models to pave the way for newer developments in the design of particulate films and coatings for optical applications.