Scientists at the University of Waterloo in Canada have created a unique fabric that can heat up by 30°C in just 10 minutes in sunlight. The material contains PANI and PDA polymer nanoparticles that efficiently absorb sunlight and convert it into heat. Its fibres also contain thermochromic dyes that change colour as the fabric warms.
The researchers have already tested the fabric by knitting a miniature sweater for a toy. In sunlight, the fabric reached 53.5°C, while its colour changed from red to white. The material remains soft, elastic and resistant to repeated washing. This sets it apart from earlier prototypes, which either required batteries or were too expensive.
The scientists are working to reduce production costs and prepare the technology for mass production. In the future, this fabric could be useful for winter sports, extreme weather conditions and rescue operations.
