Determining temperature regulating factor for apparel fabrics containing phase change material

Purpose In order to characterize the temperature regulating ability of fabrics containing phase change material (PCM), the test instrument has been designed and built. Design/methodology/approach To assess temperature regulating ability, temperature regulating factor (TRF) is determined. TRF is defined by Hittle as a quotient of the amplitude of the temperature variation of the hot plate and the amplitude of the heat flux variation divided by the steady state heat resistance of the fabric. Findings The test instrument presented here is intended to be used for testing steady state and transient state characteristics of the apparel fabrics containing the PCMs. Practical implications This test instrument can be used in quality control during the manufacture of fabrics containing PCMs. TRF can be used in clothing industry to establish the criteria for comfort parameters of textiles. Originality/value The instrument can provide information for the fabric and garment designers and be useful in quality control during the manufacture of fabrics with the microPCMs. The TRF can be used in the clothing industry to establish the criteria for the comfort parameters of textiles.