Crystallization-based Preparation Method of Polyurethane/Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Composite for Cooling System

Abstract

As energy and environmental protection issues become important, the cooling methods need to be improved. Cooling systems using temperature-responsive hydrogels as sustainable materials have been studied as effective future solutions for large-area buildings or industrial plants, but the development of effective materials is still insufficient. In this study, a composite material was made of polyurethane and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), which has a critical lower solution temperature near body temperature, by a crystallization method. It was designed to make its applications possible by using rapid response via channel structures. This system can continuously supply water was proposed, and the composites was possible to obtain a material capable of effective cooling while obtaining enhanced physical properties. As a new cooling system, it offers the possibility of commercialization in various applications.