Quantitative analysis of moisture distribution and transfer in firefighter protective clothing exposed to low-intensity radiation with/without hot steam

Abstract

Objectives. This study aimed to examine moisture distribution and transfer in firefighter protective clothing when moisture from the atmosphere and skin sweat were considered simultaneously.Methods. A self-developed test apparatus was used to simulate moisture transfer through the protective clothing under exposure to thermal radiation. The weights of each layer of fabric before and after heat exposure were measured to analyze the moisture distribution and transfer. Results. The moisture level in each layer of fabric before the exposure presented an increase over the initial moisture content. After dry heat exposure, the moisture content in each layer of fabric reduced gradually. However, the existence of hot steam increased the moisture content stored in the fabric system and accelerated the moisture transmitting to the skin surface. In addition, the amount of outward water evaporation for dry heat exposure was moderately more than inward water evaporation, while the amount of inward water evaporation was greatly more than outward water evaporation for wet heat exposure. Conclusion. Moisture transfer in the firefighter protective clothing was a two-way transmission during both heat exposures. Understanding moisture transfer helps to provide proper guidance to improve the thermal protection of clothing and reduce steam burns.