The structural and key technological analysis of phase-change cooling garments

The frequent occurrence of extreme high-temperature climates poses severe threats to human health and safety. Personal cooling garments, as an effective means to alleviate heat stress among outdoor workers, have garnered significant attention domestically and internationally. Phase-change cooling garments (PCCGs) have gained popularity due to their cost-effectiveness, portability, environmental benefits and energy efficiency. However, PCCGs face limitations, e.g., short cooling duration, low thermal conductivity of phase-change materials (PCMs) and challenges in regulating phase transition temperature. This study reviews the evolution of cooling garments, examines the design and implementation of PCCGs, and discusses key technologies in their development. Future research is needed to explore novel PCMs, heat transfer models, garment design and intelligent temperature control. The goal is to create standardized, portable and comfortable PCCGs. Furthermore, commercial applications of PCCGs are expanding, highlighting their growing importance in improving occupational safety and ergonomics in high-temperature environments.