Thermochromic Pigment Based Apparel
- Detailed Technology Description
- Cornell researchers have developed new thermochromic pigment based fabric and apparel that change color as the wearer’s ambient skin temperature increases.
- Others
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PCT Application Filed: PCT/US15/62747
- *Abstract
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Generally, as an individual performs vigorous exercise and reaches a level of physical exhaustion, their core and skin temperatures increase. Currently, only complicated and expensive systems exist for real time measurement and indication of physical exhaustion. The newly developed Cornell fabric acts as a simple and straightforward “warning light” indicating that the wearer is physically exhausted before they may be conscious of their own state.
The Cornell researchers created an athletic garment with targeted placement of thermochromic fabric panels on sensitive areas of the body. Further, the researchers designed each panel to activate at specific skin temperature ranging from 33 to 38 degrees Celsius. In addition, panels can show a range of temperatures with multiple layers of thermochromic pigments designed to activate at different temperatures with different colors. The targeted location and activation temperature of the panels allows for a customizable garment that can be tailored for the wearer’s needs.
Potential Applications
- Athletic training apparel
- Hypoglycemia monitoring in diabetic patients
- Warning of formation of reoccurring ulcers
- Warning of potential heat stroke
- Inflammation warning for individuals with arthritis
Advantages
- Accurate and fast indication of temperature change
- Less expensive than current methods of physical exhaustion monitoring
- Easy to use and identify temperature increase
Keywords: Physical Sciences, Chemicals, Consumer Products, Oleochemicals & Petrochemicals, Synthetic Methods, Materials, Engineering, Materials Science, Apparel, Fabric, Wearable Technology, Clothing
- *Licensing
- Martin Teschlmt439@cornell.edu(607) 254-4454
- Country/Region
- USA
