CLIL CLIL CLIL CHEMISTRY SOLAR TEXTILES Chemistry is a key science in explaining how our universe works through an understanding of the properties and interaction of substances that make up matter. Most processes, from the formation of molecules in outer space to the complex biological interaction occurring in cells, can be described by chemical theories. Although there are no sharp boundaries between sciences such as chemistry, physics and biology, chemistry is used to explain phenomena at the molecular level, as well as create new materials such as medicines and polymers. The development of modern society has been intimately linked with the successful integration of chemical knowledge into new technologies, such as biotechnology and nanotechnology. An amazing study is the research carried out by two women, Marianne Fairbanks and Trisha Andrew, on solar textiles at the University of WisconsinMadison, USA. The idea of building solar cells on fabric is potentially transformative, they say. A textile capable of generating energy would have revolutionary implications for a range of fields including fashion, satellite technology, military applications and a variety of consumer products, from everyday garments and accessories, to tents Structure of solar textiles. and curtains and many other items. These new materials work like the photovoltaic cells in solar panels. They absorb light and convert it into electricity. Textiles can be produced by a wide variety of processes, such as weaving, knitting, braiding and felting, and these processes offer great versatility for allowing a fabric to conform to even complex shapes. In comparison with regular solar panels, solar textiles are lightweight, portable, robust, versatile and provide flexibility. When the fabric is not in use, it can be rolled up. Many companies around the world are interested in solar fabrics because they want something functional and beautiful, and the fabrics that capture energy are attractive to the consumer marketplace. These prototypes are a very important demonstration tool for showing people that there are new ways to think about energy. www.wisc.edu/ Wearable solar dress. 194