Polyurethane–superabsorbent polymer-coated cotton fabric for thermophysiological wear comfort

This study aims to create both protective performance and thermal comfort of polyurethane (PU)-coated clothing by integrating a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) on cotton fabric. A protective surface on the fabric against chemical and water penetration was developed by coating the fabric with PU and SAP and characterised by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Surface wettability and liquid chemical-resistant properties of the coated fabrics were evaluated by measuring water contact angle, water repellency rating and chemical penetration through fabric. The experimental results demonstrated that SAP-coated cotton fabrics have almost the same water and chemical resistance properties, with no or slight deterioration in protection performance. Moreover, the coating of SAP on cotton fabric lead to improved heat and vapour transmittance that conferred much greater thermal comfort because of less sweat accumulation on the skin or inner clothing. In addition, a slight improvement in air permeability and unchanged moisture management profiles of SAP-coated fabrics indicates moisture vapour can only be diffused through coating due to strong hydrophilic nature of SAP. Integration of superabsorbent polymer on cotton fabric is a promising approach to develop protective clothing that provides simultaneous protection and thermophysiological comfort to the wearer.