The all-weather wear you will be wearing — a result of a collaboration between the ministry and leading technology and fashion institutes — has a slightly cumbersome name: indigenous Encapsulated Phase Change Material (PCM) based activewear.
‘This initiative aims to provide multifaceted solutions to India’s weather patterns’
“The initiative aims to provide a versatile solution for India’s changing weather patterns, enhancing comfort and reducing the need for multiple sets of clothes for different weather conditions and environments,” two people aware of the matter said. Mint,
He said PCM is being used in various areas of technical textiles, including sports, home textiles and protective clothing.
“The PCM-based textiles will be particularly beneficial for Army personnel operating in extreme weather conditions, from the cold climate of Jammu and Kashmir to the scorching heat of Rajasthan, Telangana, Bihar and other states across the country,” the first person said.
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“Under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), three projects focused on development and application of PCM have been approved with a total project value of Rs. “It costs Rs 25.5 crore,” this person said.
Indian Institutes of Technology, Delhi and Ropar, along with National Institute of Fashion Technology, Telangana will collaborate on the project.
“Together they will develop textiles to meet the stated requirements. This innovative technology enables the clothing to regulate temperature effectively, thereby enhancing comfort and efficiency,” the second person added.
PCMs are materials that release or absorb significant amounts of energy during phase transitions, particularly between solid and liquid states.
These changes allow PCMs to absorb and release thermal energy, making them highly efficient for temperature control. By incorporating PCMs into clothing, fabrics can maintain optimal temperatures, providing a warming effect in cold conditions and a cooling effect in hot environments.
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This technology is known for its efficiency. Unlike conventional materials, which rely on more heat and require more volume to store the same amount of energy, PCMs can absorb a lot more heat with less material.
Devika S Pathak, Professor and Head, Department of Fashion Design, North Region, Pearl Academy, New Delhi, said, “Incorporating smart fabrics that change their properties according to temperature changes can lead to innovative and dynamic designs, adding a futuristic and functional aspect to fashion. For instance, thermo wear can be designed with a sleek, modern aesthetic that will appeal to consumers seeking stylish and functional clothing.”
“The unique properties of thermal materials can be used to create interesting textures and patterns, which will add a new dimension to fashion design,” said Pathak, an expert in fashion technology.
Another industry expert, who did not wish to be named, said, “This development is in line with global sustainability goals. By reducing the energy required for heating and cooling, PCM-enhanced fabrics can contribute to energy conservation efforts, which will ultimately lead to a reduction in the carbon footprint associated with temperature regulation.”
“This is particularly relevant for India, where energy demand is growing rapidly, and sustainable solutions are vital for long-term environmental health,” the expert said.
Ashok Kumar, a readymade garment wholesaler in Delhi, said, “The government should collaborate with leading textile manufacturers to bring this technology to the market. Consumers can look forward to a new era of smart clothing that is not only friendly to their environment but also supports broader environmental sustainability efforts.”
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Published: June 12, 2024, 07:02 PM IST
