Researchers at Zhejiang University in China have developed a novel strong, flexible fibre that is modelled after the fur of polar bears and has a variety of uses outside of textiles.
Under the direction of Professor Bai Hao and Associate Professor Gao Weiwei, the research team looked to nature for inspiration to get beyond the boundaries of aerogel, the lightest solid material in the world with exceptional thermal insulation capabilities.
The team tackled the processing difficulties and fragility of conventional aerogel, using polar bears as their inspiration. Conventional aerogel, in contrast to its aerospace-focused applications, is not as strong, is not stretchable, and cannot be processed in a way that makes it suitable for use in textiles.
This innovation solves the problems with standard aerogel, making it perfect for textiles. It can be machine washed and keeps its thermal insulation under any circumstance. Its special properties offer a wide range of applications beyond fashion, signalling a turning point in sustainable materials.
They discussed the application of aerogel fibre in pullovers and contrasted its thermal insulation with that of other materials found in textiles. It was only one-fifth the thickness of a standard jacket, yet it still offered thermal insulation.
