Surface-engineered PVDF-HFP/BNNS micro-nano fibers enable high-performance radiative cooling through synergistic photon scattering

Abstract

Radiative cooling offers a sustainable thermal management strategy for personal cooling under extreme solar exposure. Herein, a surface-engineered radiative cooling fabric (PHB-4%) was developed utilizing a simple electrospinning technique. PHB-4% strategically integrates two-dimensional boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) with a high refractive index as photon scattering centers within polyvinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP) nanofibers. Through synergistic optimization of hierarchical micro-nano porous architectures and BNNS-enhanced photon scattering, the engineered PHB-4% achieves 94% solar reflectivity and 91.5% mid-infrared (MIR) emissivity, enabling a sub-ambient cooling effect of 5 °C under 824.4 W m⁻² solar irradiation. Remarkably, the PHB fabric maintains 92% reflectivity after extended ultraviolet exposure (60 days) and repeated laundering (100 cycles), outperforming conventional cooling textiles. The inherent hydrophobicity of PVDF-HFP further endows PHB-4% with antifouling capabilities and contamination resistance. Besides, the evaluation of basic properties confirms preserved flexibility, adequate breathability, and sufficient mechanical durability for wearable applications. This multifunctional cooling textile platform establishes new possibilities for sustainable personal thermal regulation and energy-efficient outdoor thermal management systems.