Inspired by the adaptive properties of squid skin, researchers from the University of California, Irvine have developed a fabric capable of dynamically adjusting to temperature changes
Published in APL Bioengineering by AIP Publishing, their innovation creates new opportunities in terms of functional textiles.
Temperature control in clothing
Squids, known for their ability to change colour through specialised skin layers called chromatophores, act as the biological inspiration behind this cutting-edge material.
Instead of manipulating visible light, the team engineered a composite fabric that responds to infrared radiation, the same principle behind thermal imaging technology.
“Squid skin is complex, consisting of multiple layers that work together to manipulate light and change the animal’s overall coloration and patterning,” said author Alon Gorodetsky. “Some of the layers contain organs called chromatophores, which transition between expanded and contracted states (upon muscle action) to change how the skin transmits and reflects visible light.”
Fabric adaptability
To ensure practicality in everyday use, the team incorporated features such as washability and breathability. They layered a thin film over the composite for durability during washing, perforated it to enhance breathability comparable to cotton fabrics, and successfully integrated it into flexible textiles.
The potential applications for this fabric go beyond conventional clothing. Gorodetsky highlighted its suitability for cold weather gear like ski jackets, thermal socks, insulated gloves, and winter hats. The manufacturing techniques developed could pave the way for advancements in wearable technology, organic electronics, and energy-harvesting materials.
“The strategies used for endowing our materials with breathability, washability, and fabric compatibility could be translated to several other types of wearable systems, such as washable organic electronics, stretchable e-textiles, and energy-harvesting triboelectric materials,” said Gorodetsky.
As the demand for smart textiles grows, driven by the need for comfort and performance in diverse environments, innovations like this fabric hold promise for the future. With its ability to adjust to individual body temperatures seamlessly, this fabric could redefine how we perceive and interact with our clothing.
The development of this bioinspired fabric represents a significant step forward in material science, combining nature’s adaptability with human ingenuity to create garments that truly work with the wearer.
