Subambient Daytime Radiation Cooling Protective Materials Based on Micro-nano Polyethylene Fibers

Yaling Zhai ¹, Jiaxin Li ¹, Xiaolong Su ²

⁰State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.

Acs Applied Materials & Interfaces +

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July 31, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

New polyethylene (PE) nonwovens with a special coating achieve significant radiative cooling, reducing heat buildup in protective gear. These advanced materials offer improved comfort and performance in high-temperature applications.

Area Of Science

Materials Science
Textile Engineering
Thermal Management

Background

Polyethylene (PE) nonwovens are vital for personal protective equipment (PPE) and construction, offering strength and barrier properties.
Conventional PE materials cause heat and moisture buildup, leading to discomfort and heat stress in warm environments.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop advanced PE nonwovens with radiative cooling capabilities for improved thermal management.
To enhance wearer comfort and performance in high-temperature applications by mitigating heat buildup.

Main Methods

Developed radiative cooling PE nonwovens (PE-P/SiO2) using a polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP)/silicon dioxide (SiO2) coating.
Applied a hierarchical porous coating via non-solvent-induced phase separation.
Characterized solar reflectance and mid-infrared (MIR) emissivity.

Main Results

Achieved high solar reflectance (93.8%) and strong MIR emissivity (96.4%).
Demonstrated a significant cooling effect of up to ~13 °C under direct sunlight.
PE-P/SiO2 nonwovens outperformed conventional PE and cotton fabrics in cooling performance.

Conclusions

The developed radiative cooling PE nonwovens offer a promising solution for thermal management in PPE and heat-sensitive applications.
The materials exhibit excellent self-cleaning, washing durability, and UV resistance for long-term performance.
These advancements address the limitations of conventional PE materials in high-temperature environments.

Keywords:

Thermal management passive radiative cooling polyethylene fibers protective materials self-cleaning