THE DYNAMICS OF MOISTURE TRANSPORTATION .1. THE EFFECT OF WICKING ON THE THERMAL-RESISTANCE OF SINGLE AND MULTILAYER FABRIC SYSTEMS

The provision of thermophysiological comfort using fabrics has interes ted technologists for many years, With two main challenges in mind, mo isture management and thermoregulation, all previous developments have concentrated on the production of high wicking and high thermally ins ulating fabrics, The aim of this research is to evaluate the dynamics of the thermophysiological effects with particular emphasis upon the e ffect of wicking on the thermal resistance of selected fabrics, The fa brics discussed in this paper are development fabrics with an expected end-use for sports and activewear. Hence, when in use, the fabric sys tems are expected to be in direct contact with the skin surface, and i t is the evaluation of the aforementioned 'relationship' that is of in terest.