Engineers at the University of Chicago have developed a new fabric that can significantly cool surfaces and skin in urban environments by 2-8 degrees Celsius. The fabric, made up of layers of silver threads, plastic, and wool, is designed specifically for use in cities.
The fabric’s three layers work together to block more than half of the radiation that radiates from buildings and the ground. This makes it ideal for use in protecting clothing, buildings, cars, and even storing food. The silver threads in the fabric reflect both sunlight and infrared radiation emitted by urban structures, helping to reduce heat absorption from various surfaces in the city.
In cities, surfaces like asphalt and buildings can radiate heat, raising the overall temperature of the environment. The fabric is designed to counteract this effect by blocking heat radiation from multiple sources, helping to create a cooler and more comfortable environment in urban areas.
Tests conducted on the fabric showed that it remains significantly cooler than traditional fabrics like silk or cotton even in outdoor conditions. This cooling effect could have a positive impact on heat-related health issues in cities, reducing hospitalizations and even deaths during heat waves.
In addition to its use in clothing, the fabric can also be used to protect buildings and store food, making it a versatile solution for managing heat in urban environments. Overall, the development of this fabric represents an innovative approach to addressing heat-related challenges in cities and improving the well-being of urban residents.
