Comparative Analysis of High Performance Thermal Insulation Materials

Textiles perform the important function of protecting humans from extreme climatic conditions. They have to provide a combination of thermal insulation and physiological comfort. Heat insulation is an essential parameter for providing comfort to the person wearing the apparel. The mixture of fibers, air and moisture define the thermal properties of textiles. Different combinations of fabrics, coatings and treatments are tried for various applications. In multilayered clothing, nonwoven is used extensively as thermal insulating layer.1 The physical and structural parameters of fibrous structures influence thermal insulation properties greatly.2 In subzero temperatures, the middle layer of the multilayer clothing contributes highly to protect the human body. Heat exchange is highest at areas where skin comes into contact with the fabric.1