Beat the Heat with Chalk: Revolutionary Fabric Coating Keeps You Cool

By: | November 22nd, 2024

A chalk-based coating can be applied to a variety of commercially available textiles, including cotton and synthetic fibers, to produce cooling fabrics. For example, the treated synthetic fabric (right) appears brighter compared to the untreated fabric (left) (Image courtesy: Evan D. Patamia)

Chalk-Coated Textiles: A Cool Solution for Hot Days

Researchers at the American Chemical Society have developed a chalk-based coating for textiles that can significantly reduce temperatures on hot days. This innovative coating has the potential to revolutionize how we stay cool during scorching summers.

How It Works:

The chalk-based coating reflects sunlight and radiates heat away from the fabric, keeping the air underneath significantly cooler. In tests, the treated fabric maintained temperatures up to 15°F lower than untreated fabric in various urban environments.

The Science Behind It:

The coating is made from calcium carbonate, a common mineral found in limestone and chalk. This mineral has excellent reflective properties, allowing it to deflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Additionally, the coating’s porous structure facilitates radiative cooling, further enhancing its temperature-lowering effect.

Potential Applications:

This groundbreaking technology has the potential to be applied to a wide range of textiles, including clothing, outdoor gear, and even building materials. By incorporating this cooling coating into our everyday lives, we can significantly improve comfort and well-being during hot weather.

The development of chalk-coated textiles represents a significant step forward in the field of cooling technology. As climate change continues to intensify, innovative solutions like this are crucial for mitigating the impacts of rising temperatures.

Nidhi Goyal

Nidhi is a gold medalist Post Graduate in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences.

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