The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) scholars are at the forefront of developing next-generation personal cooling solutions to address the increasing frequency of heatwaves caused by global warming. Prof. Dahua Shou, a leading expert in Advanced Textiles Technologies, has recently published groundbreaking research in Science, shedding light on sustainable personal cooling using advanced textiles and intelligent wearables.
According to Prof. Dahua Shou, smart technologies, particularly intelligent wearables and AI, play a crucial role in sustainable personal cooling. With the World Meteorological Organization predicting record-breaking temperatures in the coming years, the need for adaptive cooling solutions is more pressing than ever. The innovative garments created by PolyU researchers provide on-demand cooling and real-time health monitoring, akin to superhero-like attire.
These cutting-edge technologies integrate various cooling mechanisms to regulate body heat and moisture effectively. By combining sensing, prediction, and actuation in an AI-driven framework, personalized and energy-efficient cooling solutions are delivered. The design focuses on scalability, recyclability, and public health, workplace safety, and performance.
The shift towards sustainable personal cooling involves the integration of smart systems into clothing, such as spectrum-selective textiles and moisture-responsive fibers. These advancements aim to enhance comfort, durability, and performance while reducing reliance on air conditioning. By leveraging technologies like model-selective cooling and human-centered design, these innovations expand comfort zones and improve overall wearability.
Innovative products like iActive intelligent sportswear and Omni Cool Dry fabric demonstrate the capabilities of PolyU scholars in addressing global extreme heat. These solutions use artificial “sweat glands” and spectrum-selective cooling to keep wearers cool and dry, even in the harshest conditions. Additionally, thermo-adaptive Soft Robotic Clothing offers a unique approach to thermal insulation, maintaining inner surface temperatures significantly lower than conventional garments.
The development of SweatMD, an all-textile wearable that tracks biomarkers and provides real-time health insights, showcases the interdisciplinary efforts of Prof. Shou and his research team. By combining textile sensors, fiber-based coolers, and on-body energy harvesters, an AI-ready ecosystem for self-sustained cooling is within reach. These innovations bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical applications, offering solutions for everyday wear, sports, and protective gear.
PolyU’s commitment to translational research and collaboration with leading enterprises has led to numerous accolades, including prestigious awards and recognition for their groundbreaking work in sustainable personal cooling technologies. By leveraging interdisciplinary expertise and cutting-edge research facilities, PolyU continues to drive innovation in the field of personal cooling, addressing global challenges associated with extreme heat.
