Thermally Conductive Boron Nitride Nanosheets on Electrospun Thermoplastic Polyurethane for Wearable Janus-Type Fabrics with Simultaneous Thermal and Moisture Management

Abstract

Fabric comfort is essential for maintaining both physiological and psychological well-being. The inherent low thermal conductivity and single-layer porous structure of traditional cotton fabrics compromise the body's cooling pathways and moisture management capabilities. Multifunctional fabrics, combining excellent thermal conductivity with superior moisture management, are emerging as potential candidates for the next generation of human thermal management textiles. In this study, a straightforward strategy for preparing dual-function wearable Janus-type fabric is proposed involving electrospinning thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer onto the surface of cellulose cotton fiber and concurrently loading thermally conductive boron nitride nanosheets. The prepared fabric exhibits excellent thermal and moisture management characteristics. It achieves a thermal conductivity of 0.307 W/mK, reducing overall thermal resistance to 10.62 K cm 2 /W. The practical indoor and outdoor tests in winter demonstrate that the surface temperature of the fabric in contact with human skin is 2.9 and 3.1 °C higher than that of the common fabric, suggesting its favorable heat dissipation ability. The construction of a dual wetting gradient allows for directed moisture transport within the fabric, with a water evaporation rate of 0.276 g/h. Additionally, its robust thermal stability and excellent mechanical properties ensure its reliability for prolonged wearable device applications.