X-MINING What is Thermogenic fiber? The Mechanism and Applications of Heat Storage and Moisture Absorption heat

Thermogenic fibers are advanced fibers that efficiently utilize body heat or convert external energy into heat. They are increasingly in demand for providing a comfortable temperature environment, not just as a solution for winter cold.

These fibers are frequently utilized in clothing to warm the body or materials to enhance insulation. They are particularly beneficial in cold climates or situations where chilliness is a concern, gaining attention for creating comfortable temperature environments. Developing these fibers focuses on improving energy conversion efficiency and ensuring their durability and safety of the fibers.

There are mainly two types of Thermogenic fibers: those that convert light energy into heat and those that generate heat upon absorbing moisture.

• Convert light energy into heat
• Generate heat upon absorbing moisture.

Photo-thermal conversion fibers transform light energy, such as sunlight, into heat, providing insulation. On the other hand, moisture absorbing fibers generate heat by absorbing moisture. Choosing the right type of Thermogenic fibers requires understanding their characteristics.

Photo-thermal Conversion Fibers

These fibers efficiently convert light energy into heat, storing the heat within clothing for insulation. Selecting near-infrared absorbing materials incorporated into the fibers is crucial for efficient heat conversion. These materials selectively absorb certain wavelengths of light and convert them into heat. However, their heating function may not perform well during the night or under cloudy and rainy conditions due to weaker light energy.

Moisture-Absorbing Heat Generating material utilizing absorption heat

Another type uses the heat generated from absorbing water, such as moisture from the body, to produce heat. These materials utilize the heat generated through chemical bonding or physical adsorption of water molecules. It’s important for these materials to maintain a cycle of absorbing and releasing moisture while providing stable heating performance.

However, individuals with allergies or sensitive skin should be cautious about the materials used, and the heating function may not perform well in all environments.

SOLAMENT™ features high transparency and excellent near-infrared absorption capabilities, which enable the integration of heating functionality without compromising the basic properties of fibers. This allows for the combination of functionality and fashion without restrictions on clothing design or color.

Furthermore, the “down-less down jacket” developed as part of a prototype project exploring the future of cold-weather gear without feathers showcases the potential of SOLAMENT™ in addressing sustainability and resource utilization challenges in the apparel industry.

For more information and features of SOLAMENT™, please visit the SOLAMENT™ website.
>More details about SOLAMENT™

Thermogenic fibers offer both insulation and comfort, enhancing fashion. As lifestyles become increasingly diverse, the demand for functionality in clothing and materials is expanding.

Thermogenic fibers incorporating Sumitomo Metal Mining’s SOLAMENT™ provide insulation and comfort, enriching our lifestyles with limitless potential. For more information on heat-generating fibers or product development using SOLAMENT™, please feel free to contact us.