Thermal Comfort of Two-Layer Knitted Fabrics for Compression Garment

Abstract

Compression garments are designed to provide pressure to the body for health purposes. Particularly, dynamic compression garment for children with cerebral palsy was designed with layering of strong elastic and stretch knitted fabrics to provide more strength to the body for supporting patient's postures. Depending on types and severity of illness, different fabrics and layering combinations are applied for desired pressure. In this study, three knitted fabrics that are used to make compression garments were selected. A total of six combinations of two-layer fabrics were tested for thermal comfort. The findings show significant differences for both Rct and air permeability between two-layer combinations. B2 and A1B1 are the best to transfer heat and air from body to outside. Combinations with Fabric C lessen the abilities of both values. Depending on individual’s needs of level of pressure and placement, different fabrics and combinations can be selected to provide best performance.