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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Preparation of Functional Silica Using a Bioinspired Method
Published on: August 1, 2018
Bioinspired thermal management fibers and textiles
Mingrui Wu1, Xuanhao Lin1, Weiwei Gao2
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Low-carbon Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China. hbai@zju.edu.cn.
Bioinspired thermal management fibers mimic animal adaptations for superior heat regulation. This review explores advanced textiles, their fabrication, and future directions for improved human thermal comfort in extreme environments.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Textile Engineering
- Biomimetics
Background:
- Traditional textiles lack effective heat transfer design, failing in extreme temperatures.
- Animals like polar bears possess hierarchical fur for efficient thermal regulation.
- Bioinspired approaches leverage natural structures for advanced thermal management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review state-of-the-art bioinspired thermal management fibers and textiles.
- To outline heat transfer principles relevant to human physiology and textiles.
- To analyze natural adaptations and emerging bioinspired materials.
Main Methods:
- Review of fundamental heat transfer principles and models.
- Analysis of natural fibers and hairs for thermal properties.
- Classification of emerging fibers/textiles by fabrication, function, and application.
Main Results:
- Summary of bioinspired strategies for thermal management in textiles.
- Analysis of natural adaptations providing insights for material design.
- Classification of advanced thermal management fibers and textiles.
Conclusions:
- Bioinspired fibers and textiles offer significant potential for human thermal regulation.
- Interdisciplinary research in biology, materials, and textile engineering is key.
- Addressing current challenges will drive innovation in thermal management textiles.
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