Textile and Apparel Science

It’s Time to Rethink Reused: Denim Fabric Properties and Their Effects on Foot Thermal Sensation

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was: (a) to examine the thermal resistance (Rct) and water vapor resistance (Ret) of cotton denim fabric and hemp fabric in developing a new, two-layered material configuration for denim footwear, and(b) obtain a foot thermal sensation model for the denim footwear. Therefore, an empirical prediction model of footwear and material properties can serve as a useful research tool contributing to the improvement of materials and application of functional design processes for footwear. Five different thicknesses of 100% cotton denim fabrics (twill weave, outer layer) and one 100% hemp fabric (plain weave, inner layer) were examined. Measurements of thickness, thermal insulation (Rct), and evaporative resistance (Ret) of the fabrics were conducted using a sweating guarded hot plate according to ASTM-F1868. The findings allow footwear designers and researchers to not only comprehensively utilize the principles of human thermoregulation and footwear material properties, but also consider the development of thermal comfort features in denim shoes. This foot comfort model predicts the key parameters of footwear materials and provide a scientific basis for developing footwear material and design.

Keywords: foot thermal sensation, reused, material properties

How to Cite:

Nam, C., Sanders, E. A. & Yang, J., (2019) “It’s Time to Rethink Reused: Denim Fabric Properties and Their Effects on Foot Thermal Sensation”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 76(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.8863