Graphene infused garments regulate body temperature

Scientists from Manchester University’s National Graphene Institute have created a prototype garment to demonstrate dynamic thermal radiation control within a piece of clothing. The development also opens the door to new applications such as, interactive infrared displays and covert infrared communication on textile.

UK led team hails graphene smart clothing breakthrough

Flexible fibre sensor paves the way for truly smart textiles

The human body radiates energy in the form of electromagnetic waves in the infrared spectrum. In a hot climate it is desirable to use the full extent of the infrared radiation to lower the body temperature, and that can be achieved by using infrared-transparent textiles. Conversely, infrared-blocking coverings minimise the energy loss from the body.

The collaborative team of scientists demonstrated the dynamic transition between two opposite states by electrically tuning the infrared emissivity of the graphene layers integrated onto textiles.

The research published in Nano Letters demonstrates how smart optical textile technology can change its thermal visibility. The technology uses graphene layers to control of thermal radiation from textile surfaces.