RCTFF researcher develops building thermal insulation materials from recycled textile waste

Dr SHOU Dahua, Member of the Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF), is developing multi-functional building envelope materials from recycled textile waste. The innovation called “building clothing” (BC), made from recycled durable and thermally-resistant textiles, is a thermal insulation and radiative cooling material for buildings.

The proposed BC selectively reflects solar heat and emit thermal radiation, and can effectively repel water and dirt on building surfaces. Thus, this thermoregulating BC not only reduces textile waste, but also decreases the energy requirement for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, hence contributing to the achievement of carbon neutrality. The proposed BC is lightweight, durable, flame-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing. It is also highly versatile, with potential applications ranging from curtains and canopies to industrial building insulation.