This Innovative Natural Fabric May Protect Millions From High Temperatures

As heatwaves become increasingly frequent, a team of international scientists from Zhengzhou University and the University of South Australia has developed a natural and innovative cooling fabric designed to offer practical solutions for combating urban heat without relying on traditional air conditioning. Such fabrics could be incorporated into clothing, shoes, hats, and building surfaces, promising a future with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This is prepared by SSP.

The researchers emphasize that these fabrics are engineered to reflect sunlight and allow heat to dissipate, effectively reducing temperatures. Unlike conventional materials that trap heat, these textiles utilize three layers for optimal cooling. The top layer, made of polymethyl pentene fibers, effectively radiates heat; a middle layer of silver nanowires boosts reflectivity, minimizing heat absorption; while the wool bottom layer draws heat away from the skin, ensuring comfort even in high-temperature zones.

Yangzhe Hou, a visiting researcher at UniSA, highlights that the fabric capitalizes on the principle of radiative cooling—an intrinsic process where heat is emitted into the atmosphere and eventually space. In trials, the fabrics proved to be cooler by 2.3°C vertically and up to 6.2°C as horizontal covers compared to traditional textiles. This passive cooling feature provides a sustainable, energy-saving alternative to airconditioning systems and could alleviate stress on power grids during peak heat periods.

Jingna Zhang and Professor Xianhu Liu from Zhengzhou University note that this innovation not only addresses urban heat islands but also plays a role in broader climate change mitigation strategies, contributing to more sustainable urban development. Looking forward, there is potential for these textiles in urban planning, construction materials, and outdoor furniture, although the current high production costs and uncertain long-term durability require further research, development, and governmental backing for commercialization. Researchers also point to consumer willingness to pay, which depends on the fabrics' cooling efficiency, durability, comfort, and environmental benefits.