Pablo Martínez-Juarez
WriterEnvironmental economist and science journalist. For a few years, I worked as a researcher on the economics of climate change adaptation. Now I write about that and much more.
Few things are as enjoyable as stepping out into the Sun to warm up. Solar energy is the source of all the energy we use on Earth, both directly and indirectly, but it’s particularly known for its ability to provide heat. A team of researchers recently developed a fabric that harnesses solar energy in a new way, with a very practical purpose: Keeping us warm.
50 degrees Fahrenheit. The innovative “smart fabric” can raise temperatures by 50 degrees Fahrenheit. To achieve this, the material only needs to be exposed to sunlight for about 10 minutes. Researchers believe this invention could be used to create clothing designed to withstand extremely low temperatures.
A fashion revolution. Traditional clothing doesn’t generate heat. Instead, it minimizes the heat loss that our bodies naturally emit. In other words, it helps keep us warm rather than actively warming us up.
There are currently clothes capable of providing warmth, such as gloves, coats, blankets, and even accessories. However, these designs often rely on energy sources like batteries or plugs, which can limit their effectiveness and range of use.
Resistant and flexible. The new system avoids the cumbersome nature and risks associated with heated clothing and still provides surprising warmth efficiency. In addition to its heating capabilities, developers emphasize the material’s durability and elasticity.
According to the team, the new type of cloth can stretch up to 500% and withstand 25 washing cycles without losing its heating properties or appearance.
Nanoparticles. “The magic behind the temperature-sensitive color change lies in the combination of nanoparticles embedded in the polymer fibres,” study author Yuning Li said in a press release.
According to its developers, the new fiber is created through a wet spinning process that combines nanoparticles of polydopamine and polyaniline. This combination enhances light absorption and improves photothermal conversion.
Is it charged? Another unique aspect of the new fabric is its ability to change color depending on its energy state. When “charged” with energy, it takes on a different color. This effect is also attributed to the nanoparticles that store and release energy within the fabric.
This color-changing feature serves as an indicator of the garment’s “state of charge.”
However, the timeline for when and how this groundbreaking finding will be implemented into our wardrobes remains unanswered.
Image | Vadim Fomenok
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