Smart Materials Boost Adaptive Wearable Temperature Control
Researchers are investigating the use of photothermal phase-change materials (PCMs) to improve wearable technology for healthcare and personal thermal management. These materials can store and release heat while maintaining the flexibility and comfort required for skin-interfacing devices.
Why it matters
Advancements in smart materials are critical for the next generation of wearable health monitors and adaptive clothing that can regulate body temperature.
As wearable technologies continue to expand into healthcare and personal wellness, researchers are exploring materials that can store, convert and release heat while remaining compatible with the mechanical and comfort requirements of the human body. A new review published in Smart Materials and Devices , "Photothermal phase change materials for wearable thermal management and intelligent healthcare", examines the emerging role of photothermal phase-change materials (PCMs) in wearable thermal management and intelligent healthcare.
Photothermal PCMs have evolved beyond their traditional role as passive thermal-energy storage materials. The review describes how combining phase-change behavior with photothermal conversion, electrothermal heating, radiative heat exchange, skin-interfacing mechanics and sensing functions could provide new approaches to controlling heat in wearable systems.
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