The effect of melt-spun phase change material fibre garments on skin temperature in humans

Phase change materials (PCM) have the ability to store latent heat, a property that is utilized in the making of thermo regulating clothing [1]. The melt-spun PCM fibre [2] has a polyester sheath and PCM filled core, giving the fibre its cooling properties. By virtue of being a fibre, it enables production of a knitted fabric with high air and moisture permeability as well as high flexibility qualities. The flexible knitted fabric allows for better-fitting clothes [3], and larger area of the body surface to be covered and exposed to the cooling effects of the melt-spun PCM fibre. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a melt-spun PCM fibre sweater with PCM melting temperature at 28.4 °C and crystallisation temperature at 25.2 °C, on the skin temperatures of the upper body and perceived thermal sensation and comfort in a hot environment.