Fabric that changes color and shape when exposed to heat and electricity
Researchers from Canada have come up with a fabric that can change two of its properties at once under different external influences.
They combined polyethylene terephthalate, thermochromic microcapsules and stainless steel fibers into a material using a loom-like device. The resulting fabric, on the one hand, is durable, and on the other hand, it retains flexibility and softness.
If the fabric is heated (for example, with a hairdryer) to a temperature of 20 to 60 ° C, then it will evenly change color from purple to blue, and upon subsequent cooling, it will return to its original color.
When the fabric is heated, applying electricity to it, it changes not only the color, but also the shape. The researchers were even able to selectively activate different areas of the tissue by applying power to specific points.
The material changes properties when applied as little as 5 V for 20 seconds, which means that it can be used in small portable devices.
Did you know?
