Characterization of Thermal Protective Clothing under Hot-Water and Pressurized Steam Exposure

摘要

In this study, fabric materials used in thermal protective clothing were characterized under hot-water, and pressurized steam using both the bench-scale test and the full-scale manikin test. Thermal energy transmission through the fabric materials and whole clothing was investigated to identify factors affecting the overall performance of thermal protective clothing. It is obtained that heat and mass transfer (hot-water, steam) occurs through the fabric materials, and different properties of the fabric materials (e.g. thickness, air-permeability) affect the heat and mass transfer; hence, thermal protective performance (TPP) of the clothing. Additionally, clothing features (e.g. garment size, fit) significantly affect the TPP. Here, the relationship between the fabric materials' properties, clothing features, and TPP has been summarized. This study will help engineering high performance thermal protective clothing that can provide a greater occupational health and safety to firefighters.