Study and development of novel thermal functional textile with conductive materials

Abstract

The research focuses on study and development of novel thermal functional textile with conductive materials, especially of thermal woven textile. The aim is to develop a new generation of wearable thermal functional woven textile based on electronical heating technology for providing temperature protection and healthcare treatment. First of all, theoretical models are established to simulate the electrical resistance of the thermal woven fabric. Furthermore, design-oriented temperature prediction model is established to estimate the target temperature thus to guide the production with energy and financial conservation. Subsequently, systematic fabrications are conducted to create qualified experiment samples. After conducting performance analysis, the best combinations of design can be selected to develop optimized thermal sample. In addition, impact of different conductive path design and fabrication on temperature variations is studied. Moreover, thermal functional garments are designed and manufactured with the one step formation thermal lining. Finally, temperature indicator thermochromic pigment is developed for efficiently obtaining the temperature of thermal woven textile. This project covers multidisciplinary knowledge and the relevant scientific areas include thermal mechanism, electronic technology, weaving technology, garment design technology, colour science knowledge. The results of the research are satisfactory with significant outcomes. Simulation models of fabric electrical resistance successfully imitated the actual electrical resistance. Temperature prediction model is also effectively in estimating the target temperature. With the great help of these theoretical models, it is possible to guide the production with less material, energy and manpower waste. The thermal sample fabrics work well as proposed and have excellent appearance, which is easy to use as a normal lining for the garment. After studying the characteristics of thermal fabrics, the results and experience can assist to develop a mature commercialized garment with customized design.