Sumitomo Metal Mining Expands Applications for Infrared-Absorbing Material “SOLAMENT”
Developing Uses Through Heat-Shielding Performance in Apparel and Agriculture
Senken Shimbun: Updated Tuesday, November 11, 2025
 

Sumitomo Metal Mining is accelerating the development of new applications for its near-infrared absorbing nano-particle material “SOLAMENT.”
Depending on usage, the material can provide both heat-shielding and warming functions,
enabling proposals across a wide range of fields, including apparel and agricultural materials.

Originally developed two years ago, the material has already achieved strong adoption in areas such as heat-shielding glass for vehicles and buildings.
By absorbing near-infrared radiation from sunlight, SOLAMENT delivers heat-reduction effects,
while applications near the skin can also generate thermal benefits.
Building on these capabilities, branding initiatives began two years ago to promote multi-sector expansion.

In the apparel sector, the company is collaborating with Takisada-Nagoya to expand distribution channels.
Beyond heat-shielding and warming functions, the material is also effective in preventing voyeuristic photography using near-infrared cameras,
highlighting its multifunctional advantages.
This Autumn/Winter season, SOLAMENT was adopted in reversible down items by Onward Kashiyama’s brand “UNFILO.”

The company is also focusing on the agricultural materials field and exhibited at related domestic trade shows.
A key success has been heat-shielding sheets. In partnership with a textile manufacturer in Ishikawa Prefecture,
woven sheets made from polypropylene yarns infused with SOLAMENT have been commercialized.
These sheets allow visible light necessary for photosynthesis while reducing heat,
thereby minimizing damage to crops.
Amid increasingly severe summer heat, sales have grown steadily, with further expansion planned.

For warming applications, the company is exploring usage in winter hydroponic cultivation.
Traditionally reliant on boiler-based water heating, SOLAMENT offers an alternative thermal management approach.

Additionally, prototype garments have been developed in collaboration with air-conditioned workwear manufacturers.
By incorporating SOLAMENT into the outermost fabric layer, external heat can be reduced,
maximizing the cooling efficiency of fan-equipped garments.

With expectations for overseas demand, the company has also exhibited at agricultural trade shows in the United States.
Field trials are being conducted in parallel, with preparations underway in Southern Europe and Turkey.