Improvement of the Construction of Protective Clothing for Better Wearability and Comfort

摘要

The waterproofness and vapor permeability of rainwear samples were determined, and tests were developed. Technologies underlying the vapor permeability of waterproof samples are based on microporosity, continuous films, microfiber weaves and multilayer fabrics. Samples of the first two technologies show excellent vapor permeability, but for continuous films, this depends on the humidity. Semipermeables cause equal thermal strain as impermeables in cold or cool environments but less strain in the heat. For hard work, the moisture accumulation is lower in semipermeables, but still too high. Ventilation due to motion may be increased by good design and is far from negligible, although wind appears to be more powerful. Ventilation and permeability are linked together in a mathematical model that allows the prediction of condensation inside the garment, for an optimal design as to thermal strain and sweat accumulation.