October 01, 2024
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA, have developed a coating of barium sulfate and calcium carbonate, a component used to make chalk, to keep fabrics cool. When the fabric is treated with this coating, the temperature beneath it can decrease by up to 8°F, which makes the coating potentially useful for creating sportswear and beachwear. Scientists have been working on crafting textiles that release body heat and reflect the sun’s heat, however, these textiles use materials that are harmful to the environment. Barium sulfate and calcium carbonate are eco-friendly and reflect ultraviolet light and visible and near-infrared light, respectively. Thus, this environmentally friendly coating can be used to make comfortable and cool clothing.
Watch this video how the sun’s heat affects light- and dark-coloured clothes
Image for representational purposes
