Sodium alginate/guar gum/multi-walled carbon nanotubes-based hydrophobic Joule thermal textiles for enhanced body thermal management and dehumidification

A sodium alginate (SA), guar gum, and multi-walled carbon nanotube composite solution was prepared using a simple blending method, followed by the construction of alginate/guar gum/multi-walled carbon nanotube fibers and fabrics through complexation with various metal ions (zinc, copper, calcium), featuring multiple hydrogen bonds and ionic complex structures. Specifically, the sodium alginate zinc/guar gum/multi-walled carbon nanotube (SA/GG/Zn2+/MWCNTs) composite fibers exhibited a significant Joule heat effect. By integrating with electronic components such as a temperature control switch, a wearable device capable of operating in cold and humid environments for dehumidification and warming was fabricated. The SA/GG/Zn2+/MWCNTs composite fabric demonstrated excellent hydrophobicity, with a contact angle reaching 145.4 degrees, significantly enhancing its resistance to droplet penetration. Under a 5V voltage, the composite fabric rapidly generated Joule heat, increasing the surface temperature by 5 similar to 7 degrees C (sensible heat) within just 40 s. Additionally, part of its energy (latent heat) transformed the tiny droplets adhering to the fabric's surface from liquid to gas, achieving dehumidification. This research provides an important theoretical and practical foundation for enhancing the performance and energy efficiency of personal thermal management textiles.