Robust Smart Fabrics Composed of MgO Nanostructures Encapsulated in Hollow Polystyrene Fibers for Efficient Thermoregulation

Abstract

Functionalized smart fabrics based on phase change materials (PCMs) are potential candidates for adaptive temperature regulation. In this work, composite PCM (CPCM) was first designed with optimized thermophysical properties and antileakage performance. Magnesium oxide (MgO) whiskers were used as the thermal filler to enhance the heat conduction of the CPCM. To improve the compatibility between the filler and the matrix, the whiskers were encapsulated by polystyrene (PS) hollow fibers, forming nanostructured MgO@PS fibers, accompanied by reduced interfacial thermal resistance (ITR). The composite phase change fabric (CPCF) with uniformly distributed internal composition was prepared by the vacuum impregnation method. Owing to the optimized CPCM matrix and specifically designed MgO@PS nanostructure, the final developed fabric (CPCF-M8) showed favorable phase change properties, good stability and mechanical properties, and excellent thermal conductivity of 1.34 W/mK (a 434% improvement compared to the original CPCM). The efficient thermoregulation capability of the CPCF-M8 was further confirmed by performing the practical human thermal management tests with a maximum temperature adjustment of 2.3 °C. In addition, the outdoor temperature adaption tests revealed that the CPCF-M8 was able to provide self-cooling and self-heating, resulting in a maximum 4.2 °C temperature adjustment.

Research progress of thermoregulating textiles based on spinning of organic phase change fiber of energy storage

“…It is an intuitive and efficient way to analyze the heat utilization efficiency of PCM on intelligent fibers or textiles at regular intervals by thermal imaging. Zhang et al 100 developed a fabric with good stability and a high thermal conductivity by encapsulating not only PW and LA but magnesium oxide (MgO) whiskers by polystyrene hollow fiber. Subsequently, two aspects of thermoregulation investigation were performed.…”

“…Zhang et al. 100 developed a fabric with good stability and a high thermal conductivity by encapsulating not only PW and LA but magnesium oxide (MgO) whiskers by polystyrene hollow fiber. Subsequently, two aspects of thermoregulation investigation were performed.…”

Thermally Conductive Boron Nitride Nanosheets on Electrospun Thermoplastic Polyurethane for Wearable Janus-Type Fabrics with Simultaneous Thermal and Moisture Management

“…Additionally, an appropriate microclimate reduces fatigue and discomfort, thereby potentially enhancing immune system function. , Traditionally, microclimate control methods have been predominantly active, necessitating behavioral adjustments in response to external changes. This includes the use of energy-intensive equipment like air conditioning, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers to regulate indoor temperature and humidity. , Presently, a prominent approach to human microclimate control involves passive management. , This entails developing clothing or textiles using advanced materials and textile technology to effectively regulate human temperature or humidity.…”

“…The water evaporation rate of the fabric reached 0.67 g/h, which increased by 400% compared with ordinary cotton fabric. For thermal management, common strategies include employing thermally conductive or phase change materials, ,− integrating radiative cooling materials, and utilizing evaporative cooling technology . Lu et al utilized electrospinning technology by incorporating BN nanoparticles into flax fiber spinning solutions to fabricate a singular cooling fabric.…”

“…9,10 Presently, a prominent approach to human microclimate control involves passive management. 11,12 This entails developing clothing or textiles using advanced materials and textile technology to effectively regulate human temperature or humidity.…”