DYNAMIC MOISTURE VAPOR TRANSFER THROUGH TEXTILES .2. FURTHER TECHNIQUES FOR MICROCLIMATE MOISTURE AND TEMPERATURE-MEASUREMENT

This study investigates new techniques for measuring the influence of fiber type on fabric surface vapor pressure and temperature, which are related to sensations of clothing comfort. Microfine hygrometry and t hermometry are used to measure dynamic changes in moisture vapor press ure and temperature on both surfaces of a two-layer fabric assembly un der simulated body-clothing conditions. Findings show that fiber type significantly influences transient, comfort-related variables such as changes of inner surface vapor pressure and temperature. Polyester dou ble layer assemblies exhibit the lowest inner surface temperature, but a much higher concentration of moisture vapor. Cotton assemblies show the slowest rate of inner vapor pressure accumulation with the highes t inner surface temperature rise. Mixed fabric layers of cotton and po lyester reveal moderate inner surface temperature peaks and moderate v apor pressure changes. Using a completely different methodology, this study reinforces other findings that fiber type and finish are indeed important to understanding transient changes in moisture vapor and tem perature within fabric and clothing assemblies and their interior micr oclimates.