Cooling innovation from a hot startup

Concerns over climate change and rising temperatures have sparked a global challenge to find practical solutions for keeping people safe and comfortable, especially in extreme heat sectors like construction, logistics, and defense. United States-based startup Eztia Materials has developed HydraVolt, a next-generation cooling material aimed at workers in these demanding environments.

Eztia CEO Tiffany Yeh discusses the origins and potential of this innovative innovation, which has the potential to revolutionize worker safety across various industries.

Yeh, a materials scientist and medical doctor, drew inspiration for HydraVolt during her time as a student, exploring wearable cooling materials as a passion project. Her research into cooling polymers used in buildings and vaccine packaging led to the development of the polymer designs she cultivated as a side project while studying medicine. After completing her medical degree, Yeh decided to apply her newfound knowledge to create a tangible technology, giving birth to Eztia.

HydraVolt is designed to lower skin temperature by up to 10 degrees Celsius for up to 8 hours through evaporative cooling, powered solely by exposure to water and capable of being laundered like regular clothing. The material can be printed onto or sewn into garments, making it a versatile solution for various applications. Eztia's first partner, Kajima Corporation, successfully integrated the cooling material into a construction site in Tokyo, refining the design over time.

Eztia's technology is making waves in both commercial and public safety sectors, with customers in Japan, the United States, and Singapore. The company is conducting trials with diverse demographics, including elementary school children, professional baseball players, and logistics workers, demonstrating the potential for scaling and incorporating the technology into daily life.

As global warming continues to escalate, HydraVolt's cooling solutions could significantly enhance city resilience by providing innovative methods to combat heatstroke and ensure the safety of first responders and event staff. Eztia's commitment to offering opportunities to underrepresented groups, such as women, international students, and trade school graduates, also sets it apart, fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.