Influence of waterproof and breathable membrane on thermal comfort properties of multi-layer clothing system

Abstract

In this study, two multi-layer fabric systems intended for firefighters have been tested in order to determine the basic parameters of thermal comfort. The thermal comfort is evaluated effectively by measuring the thermal properties of clothing on the sweating-guarded hotplate (skin model). The first assembly is composed of an external layer, a middle layer (thermal insulation), and an inner layer (moisture barrier - hydrophilic polyurethane (PU) membrane coated on knitted fabric). The second one contains an external layer, a middle layer (thermal insulation), and an inner layer (liner). Both assemblies contain the same external layer and middle layer. These layers are tested as monolayers and in multi-layer clothing systems. The influence of the membrane on the thermal and water-vapour resistance of the multi-layer fabric system has been studied. When the combinations of different materials are used for a multi-layer fabric system, the thermal comfort is dependent not only on the properties of each monolayer but also on the manner in which they act together. The results show that the monolayer acting as a moisture barrier has a considerable influence on the overall water vapour  transport abilities. The position of the moisture barrier in the assembly is also important in the overall value of water vapour resistance of the multi-layer system.