With global warming increasing the frequency and severity of extreme heat waves, combating heatstroke and dehydration is now more important than ever. Dr Fei Bin and his research team at the Institute of Textiles and Clothing have developed a revolutionary fibre that incorporates micro-ceramic crystals to reflect solar heat without being dependent on sweating or ventilation, cooling wearers by up to 4°C in direct sunlight.
Inspired by glacier lettuce with salt water-filled vesicles resembling ice crystals that reflect sunlight to cool itself, the research team applied tiny ceramic crystals to polymer fibres. “By carefully selecting the crystal sizes in the fabric, solar heat can be reflected away without stopping the body from releasing heat” , Dr Fei said.
During the process, the team worked to encase the ceramic crystals securely inside each fibre. By crafting a fibre with a ceramic crystal core and a polymer outer shell, they were able to maintain the strength of the fibre while ensuring that its cooling effect can last for up to 50 washes.
In March 2017, this innovation won a silver medal and a special merit award at the 45th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva.