Abstract
In order to evaluate physiological responses and comfort sensation of the developed thermoregulating textile material, polyester knit fabric was treated with phase change material (PCM) microcapsules by printing. Ten male subjects wearing an experimental best with and without PCMs were seated for 20 minutes, then exercised for 20 minutes, and then seated for 30 minutes in the chamber which was controlled under the temperatures of 20$\pm$1$^{\circ}C$, 50$\pm$5%R.H. The subject's skin temperature, microclimate inside garment and comfort sensation of two experimental bests were compared one another. As a result, the rectal temperature, skin temperature and mean skin temperature were similar in the two groups, and the subjects were not able to perceive the differences in comfort of the two experimental bests. However, the effect of PCM microcapsule could be seen from microclimate temperature and humidity. The microclimate temperature of the PCM garment at chest was significantly higher during exercise. The microclimate humidity of the PCM garment at chest was significantly lower during exercise and rest.
