Wearable Cooling Fabrics

Researchers from Zhengzhou University and the University of South Australia have developed an innovative cooling fabric designed to combat the urban heat island effect, potentially offering relief during intense heat waves. In tests, this fabric remained up to 6.2°C cooler than its surroundings, using a passive cooling approach that reflects sunlight and releases heat naturally.

The fabric comprises three specialized layers: a polymethyl pentene fiber layer that radiates heat, a middle layer of silver nanowires to reflect sunlight, and a wool base layer to direct heat away from the skin. This design allows the fabric to stay significantly cooler than conventional textiles, even in challenging urban environments.

The research team envisions this cooling fabric in various applications beyond clothing -- integrating it into building materials, outdoor furniture, and city infrastructure could lessen reliance on air conditioning, lowering energy consumption and strain on urban power grids. However, scaling production and ensuring long-term durability are essential for commercial viability. This promising fabric innovation could play a key role in urban cooling and sustainable city planning.