Comfort Factors In Clothing Performance

In the 50’s and 60’s PVC and PU was a popular choice for the use in waterproof garments. It was also impermeable to water, hence keep us dry. Yet, the inherent problem with PVC and PU coated fabrics is that moisture vapour couldn’t pass through and end up creating an uncomfortable wearer environment.  

A solution discover in the 70’s, that was the discovery of microporous coating. In this discovery, moisture vapour was allowed to pass through and the results significantly keep us comfortable. This was an innovation of its time and later many other materials were introduced that is followed with the introduction of Hydrophilic breathable Pu. However, still there was some shortcoming, particularly performing in wet and cold condition. 

The formation of dew point occurs, when outside temperature is low (which is between 0oC and 10oC) and also in rain condition. This rapid condition results with the forming of vapour condensation. A warm body at 37oC inside a garment with cold saturated air outside struggled to cope with the existing moisture and as a results wearer in the discomfort zone. 

The standard test for measuring moisture vapour transmission (MVT) rates on waterproof fabrics, either the fabrics coated or laminated, was fundamentally failed. The test was carried out in such condition; without any temperature gradient e.g. 35oc outer temperature, 35oC inner body, 50% humidity and NO RAIN.  

Is this realistic ? Many studies have been carried out and this study had led to improved understanding of clothing performance particularly on how waterproof breathable fabrics perform when they are subjected to rain and cold. Question remains as in what condition, the study has to be carried out, either in actual condition or in laboratory conditions…….. 

Contributed by : 

Bachik Abu Bakar,  Zaharah Kunci Mon & Rohani Rahmad

Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology

Faculty of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering

Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia

Batu Pahat, Johor

10th Disember 2010

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