Thermophysical Comfort in Soft Shell Protective Garments

Experimental work focuses on three major areas known to affect the thermophysiological comfort of outdoor clothing. The moisture vapour transmission of experimental garment systems have been determined by BS7209. Condensation accumulation and moisture uptake testing was carried out at 1°C and -7°C to determine any performance variations in sub-zero conditions and air permeability measurements were obtained. Thermal resistance data was obtained and highlighted variation in soft-shell assemblies currently in use. Thermal imaging data and wearer trials in wet and dry conditions have identified differences in garment performance that can be attributed to the engineering design of the assemblies. Additionally, we are studying the liquid repellency of the outer shells by means of rain room evaluations on whole garment systems under static and dynamic conditions. BS3423 was adopted to assess the effect of fabric structure and coating formulation on water repellency particularly siloxane and fluorocarbon formulations. A new method of contact angle measurement has been  developed to investigate the performance of siloxane and fluorocarbon waterproof finished and their durability to washing and abrasion. Concerning the interaction of breathability, thermal insulation and water repellency in both laboratory and on the hill controlled wearer-trials were conducted with embedded data-logging microclimate sensors to determine the temperature and moisture vapour concentration rates within the clothing during controlled exercise periods.

Staff Contact: Mr D.B. Brook