As the days get shorter and the nights colder, many of us are searching for ways to stay warm and cosy. Heated blankets are a popular choice, but they come with some drawbacks that can make people hesitant to use them. 

While modern electric blankets are far safer than they used to be, they still present hazards to vulnerable people. Individuals who are less sensitive to heat levels, such as people with diabetes, circulatory issues, or dementia, have an increased risk of burns if the blanket becomes too hot without them realising. Additionally, the World Health Organisation recommends that pregnant women avoid using electric heated blankets during pregnancy due to potential risks. 

Improper use or storage of electric blankets can damage heating elements and wiring, creating a fire hazard in the future. Beyond these safety concerns, electric blankets are also relatively inefficient, consuming significant power and driving up energy bills.

However, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been recognised as an innovative solution with the potential to address these challenges and keep us warm!

A CNT-Based Heated Blanket

Recently, US-based home comfort technology company Jartoo launched a new product on Kickstarter – the world’s first CNT-based heated blanket. The blanket leverages the unique properties of CNTs to deliver efficient and uniform heating, redefining how we stay warm. 

CNTs are exceptionally lightweight and have excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making them ideal for applications requiring rapid and even heat distribution. In this CNT-based heated blanket, the nanotubes are integrated directly into the fabric, enabling the blanket to heat up in just one minute while maintaining consistent warmth across the entire surface – meaning no overheating or cold spots!

The blanket can operate on a low-voltage 24V system, which enhances safety and reduces the risk of burns. Thanks to the excellent conductivity of CNTs, it consumes only around 70 Watts of power – approximately 60% less energy than traditional electric blankets. 

Beyond efficiency and safety, using CNTs as part of the material offers excellent durability. CNTs are not only lightweight but also incredibly strong – up to 100 times stronger than steel but only one-sixth of the weight. This makes the blanket both lightweight and machine washable, ensuring a longer lifespan and thus representing a more sustainable option.

The Final Word

We’re thrilled to see yet another innovative and practical application of CNTs – this time in household technologies. We can’t wait to get our hands on a CNT-based heated blanket!

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