In cold weather, to remain in thermal balance with the environment a person must adjust their level of insulation. Normally, the response is to adjust the level of ventilation (unzipping a jacket, for instance) or to add or remove layers of insulation. These actions require the involvement of the wearer and multiple insulation garments. A number of active designs have been investigated. All have involved either active user involvement such as inflating a bladder to change thickness or power such as electrical heating elements. We have worked towards developing a thermal insulation material that will adapt automatically, without any power, to changes in environmental conditions.
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