Heat and Moisture Transfer Through Nonwoven Fabrics

A theoretical model is demonstrated that provides a reliable prediction of thermal transmission through nonwoven structures. The validity of the model is confirmed in experiments that measure the thermal conductivity of various nonwoven barrier fabrics. The model is used to characterize the relative contribution of heat transfer mechanisms to the total heat transmission. It also provides a good explanation of the roles played by fiber and fabric variables in determining the thermal insulation of nonwoven barrier materials.