The Use of Phase Change Materials in Clothing

When microcapsules of phase change materials (PCMs) are added to textiles, they absorb heat energy as they change from a solid to a liquid state and release heat as they return to a solid state. This project quantified the effect of PCMs in clothing on heat flow from the body during temperature transients. One and two layer body suits were constructed of a fabric/foam laminate produced with and without PCMs. Heat loss from a thermal manikin was measured as he was moved from a warm chamber to a cold chamber and back again. The results indicated that the heating and cooling effects lasted approximately 15 minutes. The heat released by PCMs in a cold environment decreased body heat loss by an average 6.5 W for a one layer suit and by 13.2 W for a two layer suit as compared to their non-PCM counterparts. The PCM cooling effects increased body heat loss in a similar manner. In conclusion, PCMs in clothing provide a small, temporary heat/cooling effect during environmental transients.

Reference Information:

Shim, Huensup, McCullough, Elizabeth A., and Jones, Byron W., “The Use of Phase Change Materials in Clothing,” Textile Research Journal, Vol. 71, No. 6, June 2001, pp. 495-502.

This entry was posted on Monday, August 13th, 2007. It is filed under Apparel, Textiles, and Interior Design.