Superhygroscopic Multilayer Microfibrous Membrane for Cold Stress Management

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Thermal Management

Background:

• Moisture condensation and freezing in protective gear accelerate heat loss in subzero environments.
• Severe cold stress poses significant risks in extreme-cold conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a microfibrous membrane for effective thermal-moisture management in extreme-cold environments.
• To create a material capable of rapid moisture capture, condensation inhibition, thermal compensation, and solar regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a sandwich-structured microfibrous membrane with integrated photothermal properties.
• Evaluation of water uptake, nonfrozen water storage, and absorption heat release at subzero temperatures.
• Assessment of solar-driven regeneration efficiency and performance in a face mask under real-world cold conditions.

Main Results:

• The membrane exhibited high water uptake (1.41 g g^-1) at -21 °C and 90% RH, storing water in a nonfrozen state.
• Significant absorption heat was released, creating localized warming zones.
• Rapid solar-driven regeneration achieved ~99% water release within 7 min under 1 sun.
• Integration into a face mask effectively suppressed condensation and elevated inner-surface temperature by over 10 °C at -2 °C.

Conclusions:

• The developed microfibrous membrane acts as a self-adaptive passive thermal-moisture management material.
• This technology offers a promising strategy for smart textiles designed for extreme-cold protection.
• The material demonstrates potential for enhancing comfort and safety in cold environments.