Swiss Federal Railways has begun a groundbreaking pilot test with Coolest White, a revolutionary paint developed in collaboration with UNS and Monopol Colors. This innovative coating is being tested to determine its ability to reduce the distorting effects of heat on metal train tracks, a growing challenge in the face of climate change.

The pilot study, which started in mid-June, is being conducted on a 300-metre section of track in Graubünden, eastern Switzerland, as reported by swissinfo.ch. The goal is to explore whether Coolest White can help prevent metal train tracks from buckling under extreme heat, ensuring safer and more reliable rail operations.

Coolest White is an ultra-durable paint designed to protect buildings and urban structures from excessive solar radiation. Based on advanced fluoropolymer technology, the coating offers long-lasting performance, with a lifecycle of up to 30 years. Its multilayered system is specifically developed for high-quality metallic elements and structures made of aluminum, steel, or fiberglass.

The use of white paint on railway tracks is not entirely new. Italy has already adopted this technique, and Germany has been testing it since 2019. However, the Swiss pilot study represents a significant step forward in applying this technology to address the challenges posed by rising global temperatures.

By reflecting solar radiation and reducing heat absorption, Coolest White has the potential to not only protect infrastructure but also contribute to more sustainable and climate-resilient urban environments.

As the one-year pilot progresses, the results will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of Coolest White in mitigating heat-related issues on railway tracks.