Mathematical modelling and experimental validation of thermal conductivity of outer layer of fire protective clothing

Abstract

Motivation for development of this mathematical model is the difficulties related to the experimental measurement of the thermal conductivity like frequent sample preparation, experimental setup availability and lack of easier methods for quick estimation of thermal conductivity of outer layer of fire protective clothing. Considering this, various studies were devoted in the past to determine the thermal conductivity of fabrics. Two mathematical approaches for prediction of thermal conductivity of woven outer layer have been presented in the present study. Series-parallel thermal resistance configuration has been used for prediction of effective thermal conductivity of the fabric. First approach uses input values of structural parameters and can be useful in the development of new woven fabrics for outer layer of fire protective clothing. Second approach uses fibre volume fraction and thermal conductivity of fibre and air. It is suitable for predicting thermal conductivity of finished fabrics. The values obtained from mathematical model were validated with experimental values.