Beat the Heat
CSEF · 2026 Product Science (Junior Division)
Overview
This project investigates how different clothing materials affect heat retention and temperature regulation, and which is best to wear on a hot day. Four types of shirt fabrics, nylon, linen, polyester, and cotton, were tested by wrapping a jar of water with each shirt. Each jar was exposed to a space heater for fifteen minutes, afterwards the water temperature was measured and recorded. Results indicated that linen performed the best, causing the smallest increase in temperature, followed by polyester, cotton, nylon, and the uncovered jar. These findings suggest that breathable, lightweight fabrics like linen are most effective at regulating heat and could help improve comfort in hot conditions. This study demonstrates the importance of fabric selection for maintaining cooler body temperatures and highlights linen as one of the most effective choices for hot weather clothing.
Competition history
- CSEF 2026
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Source: California Science & Engineering Fair public projects