Smart moisture management for apparel

• Main Author: Tudas, Famela Anne Sario
• Other Authors: Alfred Tok Iing Yoong
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2022
• Subjects: Engineering::Materials
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/158627
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Moisture management is one of the most important performance requirements in the athletic wear business today. To maintain the body’s optimum performance, the regulative mechanism should be supported by wearing clothes that have the capability to act like our own skin. Hydrophilic polymers, like Pebax, are noted for their high ability to absorb moisture. Pebax offers excellent permeability to moisture vapour while remaining waterproof. However, it has not been widely studied. Thus, this project aims to investigate the swelling capabilities of Pebax MH1657 and RNEW30R51 for their usefulness in moisture management as fabric laminates. Different cut arrangements were studied to investigate their influence in water vapour transmission efficiency and one sample showed to have optimistic results which would enable it to be practical interchangeably in low and high humidity levels. They were also compared to commercial laminates and found to have better durability. Comparison between the two grades of Pebax showed that RNEW30R51 would be a more sustainable and durable option for smart moisture management.