Radiative Smart Fibers and Textiles: Thermal Management and Beyond

From electronic devices to clothing, thermal management plays an important role in maintaining the performance of heat-sensitive everyday items. In achieving this, various fibers and textiles with heat transport, storage, and conversion functionalities have been investigated. Radiative control in fibers and textiles enables precise heat management, enhancing comfort through temperature regulation while promoting sustainability by harnessing renewable energy sources, such as sunlight for heating. This Perspective discusses radiation regulation in thermal management fibers and textiles, encompassing radiative cooling, radiative warming, and dynamic dual-mode switching. Furthermore, it also outlines current technological limitations, considers possible strategies for improvement, and highlights emerging trends in the development of smart textiles toward autonomous thermal adaptation in sustainable, energy-efficient systems.