A Kerala scientist leads a University of Alabama breakthrough in self-cooling clothing technology to combat extreme heat conditions.
What if the clothes you wear in summer could keep you cool?
Scientists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the United States are working on such an innovation and have applied for a patent. The research team is led by Dr Vinoy Thomas, a native of Valakam in Kottarakkara. Their findings have been published in the journal of the American Chemical Society.
The researchers have not invented an entirely new cooling fabric. Instead, they have developed a method to convert existing textiles into heat-regulating materials. This is achieved through two techniques – electrospinning and plasma surface modification.
The first method ensures an even distribution of boron nitride nanoparticles across the fabric. The second involves embedding silicon oxide nanoparticles into stitching threads using low-temperature plasma (LTP) treatment.
Both boron nitride and silicon oxide nanoparticles are known for their heat-resistant properties. By combining the two approaches, the team has developed a technique that significantly reduces heat. The nanoparticles function as an additional coating on the fabric.
Tests showed that the coating remains effective even after five to eight washes, without altering the fabric’s basic characteristics. As performance gradually reduces with repeated washing, researchers recommend applying a double-layered surface coating to enhance durability.
Commercial production will begin once the patent is granted. Experiments revealed that coated garments reduced an external temperature of 35 degrees Celsius by 15 degrees, bringing it down to 20 degrees Celsius. The researchers say the method can be applied to any type of fabric.
Previous studies largely focused on developing entirely new heat-resistant materials. According to the study, the present innovation is more efficient and cost-effective compared to existing technologies.
Other members of the research team include Dr Ranjith Rajanpillai, Dr Kannadasan Appavu, Dr Claudiu T Lungu and Dr Sanjay K Behura from the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering.
News Courtesy : Mathrubhumi