THERMAL PROTECTION OF DIVERS' HANDS USING SUPER-INSULATION AEROGEL MATERIALS

摘要

This paper describes the development of protective gloves for cold water diving to maximize thermal protection of the extremities while minimizing degradation in manual dexterity. This effort has leveraged the successful results achieved during the recent development of cold water diving garments using aerogel super-insulation fabrics under the sponsorship of the Office of Naval Research (ONR). During this previous effort an experimental composite cold water diving garment was developed in a partnership between Duke University, Southwest Research Institute, Diving Unlimited, Inc, VinylTechnology, Inc, and Aspen Aerogels, Inc. This experimental liner was shown to have an inherent thermal insulation value 76% greater than commercially-available 400-weight Thinsulate diving garments. Additionally, thermal conductivity testing indicated that this superior thermal performance was minimally impacted by repeated flexure and compression, or when subjected to complete water immersion. Early testing indicates that a substantial improvement in glove thermal properties can also be achieved by infiltrating commercial polyester glove liners with certain aerogel formulations. During initial glove calorimeter testing the thermal insulation value recorded in air with an aerogel-infiltrated cold weather glove liner was found to be 56% greater, on average, than that recorded for a baseline polyester liner that had not been infiltrated. This paper describes the unique properties and fabrication issues inherent in the design, fabrication, and testing of glove prototypes using aerogel materials.