Mechanically robust, responsive composite membrane for a thermoregulating textile

Abstract

The human body releases heat via four mechanisms: conduction, convection, evaporation, and radiation. The normal core temperature of the human body is around 37 degrees C, and metabolism may be negatively affected and enzymes/proteins may be destroyed if the core temperature rises above 45 degrees C. To prevent such overheating, we developed an evaporative-radiative-convective fabric which can control the personal microclimate of the human body through a cooling mechanism (evaporation of perspiration, air convection, and emission of heat radiation directly into the environment). In this work, we fabricated a thermo-moisture sensitive polyurethane/silica aerogel composite membrane which showed super evaporative and radiative effects and which can facilitate the convection process in the human body. We also fabricated a sensitive membrane-based textile which can cool down the human body by releasing body heat. The developed material possessed robust mechanical properties for the longevity of the material, high water-evaporative ability, and air permeability to provide comfort to the wearer. Microclimate-controlled clothing can release most of our body heat to the environment.