Waterproof and breathable properties of nanoweb applied clothing

Abstract

This study compared the waterproof and breathable properties of clothing made from an electrospun nanoweb with those made from a conventional waterproof-breathable fabric, in order to determine the optimal environment for using electrospun nanoweb laminate with the most favorable performance for outdoor clothing. The water resistance and water vapor transmittance of the fabrics were evaluated under a range of conditions that simulate the clothing microclimate. In addition, the clothing microclimate and subjective sensations were examined under normal and rainy atmospheric conditions. The results showed that the nanoweb laminate had a higher water vapor transmission rate but lower water resistance than the polytetrafluoroethylene laminate. Results from the water penetration tests however suggest that water resistance may be sufficient to prevent wetting by rain. The wearing test revealed that nanoweb laminated clothing provided a more comfortable clothing-microclimate than polytetrafluoroethylene laminated clothing in a normal, warm environment similar to that when the wearer is exercising or sweating. In the rainy test conditions, no difference was observed between the polytetrafluoroethylene and the nanoweb laminated clothing in any of the measured variables.