Annual/Termination Reports:

[08/29/2007] [08/04/2008] [11/13/2009] [10/18/2010] [09/30/2011] [09/28/2012]

Report Information

Participants

PARTICIPANTS:

Dr. Ning Pan, University of California, Davis, CA
*Dr. Margaret Rucker, University of California, Davis, CA
Dr. Gang Sun, University of California, Davis, CA
Ms. Janis Stone, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Dr. Mastura Raheel, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
*Dr. Anugrah Shaw, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD
Dr. Kay Obendorf, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Ms. Charlotte Coffman, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
*Dr. Susan Ashdown, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Dr. Donna Branson, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
*Dr. Huantian Cao, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
*Dr. Ajoy K. Sarkar, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
Ms. Ann Slocum, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
*Dr. Karen LaBat, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
*Dr. Lynn Boorady, University of Missouri-Columbia, MO
Dr. Marilyn DeLong, Administrative Advisor, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
*indicates voting member

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes of Meeting, NC 170 Multi-State Project
Minneapolis, Minnesota , August 6-7, 2007

NC 170: Mediating Exposure to Environmental Hazards through Textile Systems
Listserv Address: NC170-LISTS@LISTS.UMN.EDU
NC-170 Web Page: http://hosts.cce.cornell.edu/txnc170/
Administrative Adviser: Chair: Vice-Secretary:
Dr. Marilyn DeLong
Design, Housing and Apparel 240 McNeal Hall
1985 Buford Avenue
University of Minnesota
Saint Paul , MN 55108-6136 mdelong@che.umn.edu
Phone: 612-625-1219
Fax: 612-624-2750 Dr. Karen LaBat
Design, Housing and Apparel 240 McNeal Hall
1985 Buford Avenue
University of Minnesota
Saint Paul , MN 55108-6136 klabat@che.umn.edu
Phone: 612-625-3628
Fax: 612-624-2750 Dr. Susan Ashdown (for Dr. Lynn Boorady)
Fiber Science and Apparel Design 327 Martha Van Rensselaer Hall Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14850 spa4@cornell.edu Phone: 607-255-1929 Fax: 607-255-1093
Members in Attendance : Susan Ashdown (New York), Jessica Barker (Iowa), Huantian Cao (Oklahoma), Charlotte Coffman (New York), Marilyn DeLong (Minnesota, Administrative Advisor), Karen LaBat (Minnesota), Ning Pan (California), Margaret Rucker (California), Ajoy Sarkar (Colorado),and Anugrah Shaw (Maryland), Gang Sun (California).
Agenda
Monday, August 6th

9:00-10:30 Call to Order, Announcements, Approval of Agenda
Introductions
Comments from Dr. DeLong, Administrative Advisor
Election of Officers: chair, vice chair, secretary
Date and Place for 2008 Annual Meeting
Web Site update, Dr. Shaw

10:30-10:50 Break

10:50-11:40 New proposal/project review, Dr. Ashdown
Plan of work for new project

11:40-12:00 State reports
Maryland

12:00-1:00 LunchMcNeal 22

1:00-2:20 State Reports
California
Colorado
Missouri
New York

2:20-2:40 Break

2:40-3:00 State Reports
Oklahoma
Minnesota

3:00-3:30 Funding discussion

3:30-4:15 Tour of Human Dimensioning Lab

4:30 Adjourn

Tuesday, August 7th

9:00-10:15 Plan project work for next project by objectives

10:30  11:45 Meet with president (Steve Warner) and staff of Industrial Fabrics Association International

12:00 Adjourn


August 6th meeting

Karen LaBat called the meeting to order at 9:00; attendees introduced themselves. As Lynn Boorady (MO, secretary) was not able to attend the meeting this year Susan Ashdown volunteered to take minutes.

In addition to members listed above Sherry Ghering from MN, Extension, also attended; she may be interested in participating in the next five year project.

Three guests from MN also attended the meeting: Ellen McKinney, graduate student; Dong-Eun Kim, graduate student; Dr. Karen Ryan, research associate, Human Dimensioning Laboratory


Shu Hwa Lin from the University of Hawaii, a prospective member for the next five year project was held up with air transportation problems. She joined the meeting later in the day.

Dr. DeLong reviewed important information for the group. We will need a new representative from Washington as Gladys Vaughn has retired; this is on hold for now. Dr. DeLong expressed thanks for our work on the new proposal, and our rapid and effective response to the request for more information and to have all members officially signed up at a critical time in the process. She recommended that we review the funding process in our individual states, as Congress has eliminated earmarked funding. This will affect us unevenly; there may be more or less money available than there has been in the past for our individual institutions for this research. Minnesota has more funding this year. Karen LaBat has applied for some of the extra funding for a pesticide project from MN; Sherry Ghering would participate with this project if successful.

We discussed the lack of a representative from USDA. We have had no communication with Joseph Wysocki (his area of expertise is housing). Mary Grey is in charge of this set of Universities, but does not know our area of research either. We discussed the possibility of getting a representative to attend our meetings every two years. Their travel funds are somewhat restricted but should allow some participation. Another possibility is setting up conference calls to us at our meeting. This connection with Washington, with access to relevant topics to our project, can also happen through e-mail. Dr. DeLong will keep working on this.

Nominations for chair, vice chair (a new officer for the group adopted in the new proposal), and secretary were solicited. Charlotte Coffman was nominated and elected as chair, Gang Sun as vice chair, and Jessica Barker as secretary. The group approved the University of California, Davis as the location for the meeting next year. Dates for the meeting were set as August 4-5 2008, alternate dates are 7-8. Gang will check the venue at California and e-mail members with the final determination of the dates for the meeting. As initiated last year, the current chair is responsible for compiling and filing the annual report the year that they conduct the meeting, so Karen LaBat will file this years (five year) report, and Charlotte Coffman will file next years annual report.

A discussion of recruiting efforts followed. Faculty from Philadelphia University were contacted by Minnesota recently. They said that they would come as guests, and report at our meetings if desired, but felt that participation in the research would be a conflict of interest.

The final report for the five year project ending this year was discussed. This report is due in 60 days (in place of the annual report). Each member should write a summary of their work on the project. These summaries should be submitted to Karen LaBat by September 1st. NY offered to organize the references for this report from the 5 years of annual reports, so only the text for the report is needed from each station unless you have a publication that should be included that is not in any of the annual reports.

The next order of business was an update of the plans for the website. This site will be migrated from NY to MD where there will be better resources for design and upkeep.
Anugrah Shaw and her colleague Courtney Harned (cpharned@umes.edu) will organize and oversee the site. Information from old site has been moved to the new site to work on the design in anticipation of the transition.

Members need to check the old site (note the different url - http://hosts.cce.cornell.edu/txnc170) to check for outdated images or information. A new design will be created with one top image, designed for all PPE users. Captioned pictures on the left will rotate; these pictures will show research at our different sites.

New, better images for the members page are needed. Send hard copy or digital images to MD. Some current images are not a high enough quality. A 3 X 5 shoulder shot is recommended.

Discussion of the target viewer of the site (researchers or users of PPE?) and the range of topics (pesticide applicators, first responders, firefighters, sun protection?) followed. We also discussed the relationship between this site and the database site to be developed with CA as the lead in the next five year project.

The CA site, partially funded by NTC, will be focused on creating a database. Users of the site will be PPE users, manufacturers, interested groups, researchers, and funding agencies. Further funding to support the development of this site will be sought from NSF once a demonstration site is developed. CA is collecting information on medical protective clothing among other sub groups including wildland and structural firefighters. Different products are being targeted including reusable and disposable PPE. An IT designer is working on the site and the once the first few pages are designed and information is collected it will be tested on a web server. The eventual goal is to have the site managed by a 3rd party (this goal is essential to obtain NSF funding). The site must be actively maintained and open to the public for free. CA has found a company ready to maintain the site for free in return for sidebar space on the site to earn income for maintenance.

Anugrah Shaw presented the advantages of working with a common design for the two sites, with a left side navigation area for individual pieces, and a top navigation area for broader topics (user groups).

All sites will be linked to one another, but each site will have a different front page, maintenance contract, and system.
.
It was decided that for clarity, the NC-170 site should be for researchers or users, and include research and extension documents from our group. Current sections include pesticide PPE, engineering controls, interiors, laundry, and sun protection. The group does not have much information on first responders yet, so this will not be a user group initially.

Links to other sites from the NC-170 site will be maintained. Pieces will be archived when outdated or no longer relevant. An archive will also be created for former members. The sun protection section may be archived, depending on how active MN will be in generating and updating information for this site. The site will continue to keep the business of the group, as this provides an easy access to reports and proposals.

Each station should review and send updates to text and information on research to MD by October 1st. Images for rotating images of our work with captions and our head shots should be sent to MD by September 1st

Gang Sun and Anugrah Shaw will keep communicating as the sites are designed and linked.

Susan Ashdown gave a brief history of the NC-170 research group, and reviewed the objectives of new the proposal.

Discussion of the new proposal centered on the best methods for communication of our work to users, including lack of use of the Internet by NY agricultural PPE users (only 20% of users look at the Internet as their main source of information). CA was interested in finding out if this is also true in CA. This is also a question that should be asked of firefighters.

Objective leaders were chosen for the new study: Objective 1  Gang Sun, Objective 2  Susan Ashdown, Objective 3  Charlotte Coffman.

Progress Reports were then presented from each attending station  see Appendix.

The new members introduced themselves and discussed their background and work relevant to this research group.

Dr. Jessica Barker (IA):

Jessica Barker completed her graduate work at Florida State, a wear test of ballistic vests comparing a vest with a novel fabric to a traditional vest. She is also interested in user interactions: how police make vests more comfortable, and how these adjustments can compromise function, fit, comfort, and thermal properties

She is interested in functional design, and introducing the teaching of functional design at Iowa. She is currently working on acquisition of a body scanner for research activities. She is also developing partnerships with the Virtual Reality group at Iowa, and is interested in research on how to use VR in fit testing

Her appointment may eventually be adjusted to reduce teaching or research in order to add an extension component.

Dr. Shu-Hwa Lin (HI):

Shu-Hwa Lin has been involved in several functional apparel research projects. She has worked with ski wear, and has worked in industry for 30 years as a patternmaker, production facilitator, in quality control, and fitting garments. She is interested in the design of functional clothing for tropical climates.

Jessica Barker is already officially a member of the group as she joined when the new proposal was submitted. Shu-Hwa Lin was voted in as member of the group. She will work on Objective 2 of the new proposal.

The group then discussed funding issues. Gang Sun described a call earlier this year from the Army for research proposals regarding personal protection. Two rounds of this call have occurred. The second call allowed more futuristic proposals, but still required readiness in three years.

A CDC (NIOSH) symposium for protective clothing was discussed. Gang will send information about this to the group.

MN met with Al Levine, in charge of an obesity group at the time, to discuss the use of the 3D body scanner for obesity research. Though this is not protective clothing it has a health focus, and could be connected to education programs for young people. IA discussed the fact that companies that make protective clothing have sizes from XXS to 8XL, to supply people in parts of the country where obesity is a problem.

Gang will contact NPPTL to look for common interests and may also invite them to the California meeting. Recent funding activity from the Dept of Public Health concentrates on protective clothing for public protection.

The group adjourned for a tour of the University of Minnesota Human Dimensioning Lab.

August 7th meeting

The minutes from 2006 were reviewed, and it was determined that all work on the previous project is complete except for some final development and testing of the coverall, which is underway and will be completed in the coming months.

A discussion was held on the possibility of sponsoring a conference, including other regional researchers in protective clothing, S1026. Such a conference would take a lot of organizing. We would also want to include NPPTL, IFAI, others. Karen will follow up with Ruth from IFAI about possibility of conference.

Objective 1 and 3, and Objective 2 of the new proposal met as subgroups to discuss the objectives and to plan next years work.

Kay Obendorf joined the discussion of Objective 1 by telephone. Work will continue on the multifunctional Nomex fabrics.

The members of Objective 2 will collaborate on the development of a format to conduct focus group meetings with firefighters to gather information on the performance and fit of turnout gear, and to see what resources are available at their station to assist with conducting or transcribing focus group research. The social research group at OK could review our focus group questions and give us feedback. Once the format is developed each station will conduct one focus group meeting with 5 to 10 firefighters at their location. Suggested questions for the focus group are due Sept. 1st.
Appendix
Abbreviated State Reports of NC-170 Committee

Ajoy K. Sarkar, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.

The UV protective ability of a knit bamboo fabric was studied. Raw bamboo fabric was found to afford poor protection against UV radiation. Three different treatments viz., dyeing; finishing with a UV absorber; and one-bath simultaneous dyeing and finishing with UV absorber were optimized with regard to the concentration of UV absorber and dye. The best results were obtained with simultaneous dyeing and finishing with UV absorber; at a 4% owf concentration of dye and UV absorber the fabric was rated Excellent UV Protection. Bamboo is a relatively new apparel textile material and has not been previously characterized for its UV protective properties. Contrary to claimed reports raw bamboo fabric does not possess good protection against UVR. However, the Ultraviolet Protection Factor can be significantly enhanced by judicious dyeing and finishing treatments.

Margaret Rucker, University of California, Davis, CA
email: mhrucker@ucdavis.edu. Tel: 530-752-2018, Fax: 530-752-7584

Ning Pan, University of California, Davis
email: npan@ucdavis.edu. Tel: 530-752-6232, Fax: 530-752-7584

Gang Sun, University of California, Davis,
email: gysun@ucdavis.edu. Tel: 530-752-0840, Fax: 530-752-7584

Work has continued on antibacterial processes for clothing and other textile products. Another area of emphasis has been thermal transfer problems in porous media. A website for the protective clothing network is under construction.

A survey covering user perceptions of recycled fibrous materials and their virgin counterparts suggests that while recycled fibers may be seen as similar to virgin fibers in terms of functional features such as durability, there are some significant differences with respect to non-functional characteristics.

Anugrah Shaw, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD e-mail: ashaw@umes.edu Phone: (410) 651-6064 Fax : (410) 651-6285

ASTM and ISO performance specification drafts were revised and submitted for balloting. Interlaboratory testing was initiated for ASTM F2130-01. Protocol and materials were provided to participating laboratories. A website was developed for the interlaboratory study to assist with dissemination of information, training and data collection. Revised and updated the online database.

Karen LaBat, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
e-mail: klabat@umn.edu Phone: 612-624-3628 Fax: 612-624-2750

The Minnesota Sun Smart program, instituted in 1994, was up-dated and presented to outdoor workers. A collaborative project with the University of Minnesota Laboratory for Health and Human Performance in Extreme Environments (EE Lab) led to improved fit of several liquid cooling ventilation garments worn by astronauts (torso suit, hood, and glove). A body size variation study based on BMI (body mass index) was conducted as a basis for developing patterns that more accurately fit a full range of sizes. A doctoral student developed a 3D based pattern drafting method for pants. Basic research using motion capture technology was implemented to assess restricted or enhanced motion in PPE.

Susan Ashdown, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
e-mail: spa4@cornell.edu Phone: 607-255-1929 Fax: 607-255-1093

S. Kay Obendorf, Cornell University
e-mail: sko3@cornell.edu Phone: 607-255-4719 Fax: 607-255-1093

Charlotte Coffman, Cornell University
e-mail: cwc4@cornell.edu Phone: 607-255-2009 Fax: 607-255-1093

A polyurethane (PU) membrane surface was chemically engineered to add functional antimicrobial agents (e.g. N-halamines) onto the surface using a two step process; first grafting 2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-imidozalidin-4-one (TMIO) to the surface and then using a chlorination process to transform TMIO into N-halamine. Grafting was confirmed by attenuated total reflectance mode Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) and 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra. Antimicrobial activities were determined by testing with Gram-negative bacteria E. coli and Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus.
A chlorinated PU control membrane and TMIO modified PU membrane showed antimicrobial properties with the later being more powerful particularly against S. aureus.

For the product development study, a database of about 100 photographs of agricultural workers working with pesticides was categorized to determine the most common fit problems and areas of stress for the coveralls. A set of 10 active body positions was identified from this database for use in the final testing of the prototype coverall design. Three initial prototype coverall designs were developed with the goal of maximizing movement without sacrificing comfort or protection, and minimizing the overall silhouette to reduce the incidence of tears from catching. Methodologies for fit assessment of garments from 3D body scans were further developed. Two approaches were used to validate visual scan fit assessment, direct measurement of scan data compared to the visual scan fit assessment and comparison of fitting alterations of actual garments to visual scan fit assessments of the same garments.

Outreach on PPE continues through certification training, exhibits, publications, websites, and telephone responses. The current NC-170 Regional Research website (http://hosts.cce.cornell.edu/txnc170) was moved to a new server maintained by Cornell Cooperative Extension. Website hits total 3584 with March and October receiving the most visitors and January the fewest.

Huantian Cao, Oklahoma State University
e-mail: huantian.cao@okstate.edu Phone: (405) 744-3015

Exploratory research was conducted into the use of a textile fabric as the sensing surface for chemical detection using colorant porphyrins, which will have spectral shift when exposed to toxic chemicals in environment. Carbaryl, a carbamate compound, was detected using Meso-tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl) porphyrin (TPPS4) in solution and when dyed on cotton fabric. When dyed onto mercerized cotton fabric, carbaryl can be detected at 8ppm level by TPPS4.

Accomplishments

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:<br /> <br /> Major accomplishments during the course of the project are summarized by objectives and sub-objectives below. States worked on independent projects that contributed to the objectives of the group as a whole and worked on collaborative projects.<br /> <br /> Objective 1: to improve protection and human factor performance of PPE through product development.<br /> <br /> Californias work included study of protective determinants of textiles, protective clothing for specific groups, and establishing a network and database for PPE. <br /> <br /> Antibacterial textiles for infection control and odor reduction: Several technologies that can produce antibacterial textiles and polymers have been developed and applied in healthcare textiles. HaloSource and Medline are marketing hospital bed linen and garments with rechargeable biocidal functions. The technology has also been applied to military and civilian consumer products. Durable and rechargeable odor-free underwear items were tested by the Air Force.<br /> <br /> Study of emergency responders uniforms: This collaborative research project has received funding from the National Textile Center (NTC). A new technology that incorporates biological protective functions onto Nomex fabrics was developed. Nomex fabrics, widely employed in firefighters uniforms, can be directly chlorinated in a simple wet treatment, and the finished fabrics exhibit rapid and rechargeable antibacterial functions. The fabrics can inactivate both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in a short contact time, but without negative effects on any existing mechanical and fire resistant properties. These fabrics are the best materials so far for protective clothing and military textiles. <br /> <br /> Self-decontaminating clothing: Halamine structures were demonstrated capable of detoxifying toxic chemicals, and are incorporated on fibers as an active surface so that the fabrics effectively detoxify pesticides. We have demonstrated that carbamate pesticides such as methomyl and aldicarb could be effectively detoxified by the treated fabrics. The results also provide information for self-decontamination of chemical warfare agents by using these textiles. The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory of NIOSH/CDC financially sponsored the research on self-detoxification functions of the functional textiles. <br /> <br /> Establishment of a national network and database on protective clothing: A new initiative to establish a national network of researchers and manufacturers of protective clothing materials for emergency workers was proposed to and funded by NTC. This research project received support from industrial associations and federal agencies. INDA and IFAI have provided manufacturers information for the database. We are constructing a website to make the database available to all users, manufacturers and researchers. The website will be hosted by an industry partner in the future.<br /> <br /> Liquid transport through fibrous materials: We dealt with problems of liquid spreading along a single fiber, wetting and ascending of a liquid along a fiber bundle, and liquid permeating into a fabric, by using a statistical mechanical model (the Ising Model). We developed computer software to predict the liquid transport behavior in fibrous materials and validated our predictions by experimental data.<br /> <br /> Effective thermal conductivities of fibrous materials: Heat transfer and exchange in fibrous materials is another fundamental problem where existing knowledge has been scarce and mostly empirical. We have developed a mesoscopic numerical tool, including a lattice Boltzmann algorithm along with a structure generating tool QSGS, for prediction of the effective thermal conductivities without resorting to any empirical parameters.<br /> <br /> Textile and skin interactions and the skin blistering process: We employed a coupling finite element model with a blister-characterized structure to investigate the effects on deformation and stress of an existing blister by changing the friction coefficient and elastic modulus of the material in contact with the blister.<br /> <br /> Protective clothing for wildland firefighters: Work on improving the protective clothing system for wildland firefighters has continued in cooperation with CALFIRE. The focus was on evaluating the effects of silk screened emblems on thermal protection of protective clothing under two moisture conditions. The results showed a decline in thermal protection under conditions of high heat flux and a moist inner layer of clothing. Under almost all of the conditions considered in this study, the emblem provided increased, rather than decreased, thermal protection.<br /> <br /> Protective clothing for pesticide applicators: Work on improving the design of protective coveralls for pesticide applicators continued in cooperation with investigators in NY, MO, and MN. Verbal and visual data were collected from 23 applicators in California and 40 in New York and the design process was initiated.<br /> <br /> <br /> Colorado contributed knowledge and findings with a focus on UV characteristics and performance of textiles.<br /> <br /> Influence of fabric characteristics on UV transmission: The study explored the effect of fabric parameters such as fiber composition, fabric weight, fabric thickness, cloth cover, chemical pre-treatments and chemical finishes on the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). It was found that cotton/polyester blend fabrics offered superior protection than 100% cotton fabrics. For 100% cotton fabrics a greater thickness afforded better protection whereas for blends thickness was not a significant factor. Influence of fabric weight was identical in that for 100% cotton fabrics a higher fabric weight imparted good protective properties whereas for blends fabric weight was immaterial. Preparatory treatments such as desizing and bleaching reduced the UPF. However, it was found that the undesirable effects of desizing and bleaching could be compensated by the presence of an optical brightening agent. An optical brightener coupled with a durable press finish provided the highest UPF rating. <br /> <br /> Predicting UPF using image analysis: The objective of this study was to develop a method for predicting the UPF of fabrics by calculating percent cover using a digital stereo microscope. Percent Cover was determined by image analysis using a stereo zoom microscope attached to a Windows XP-based PC and equipped with a CCD camera and below stage illumination (Model DM 143 Motic Instruments, Inc., Vancouver, BC). Software applications used for analysis included Photoshop (v7.0, Adobe Systems, Inc. San Jose, CA), ImageJ (v1.3, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD) and a Photoshop plug-in to control the camera supplied by Motics standard software. Percent cover data obtained by this method correlate well with UPF values of the fabrics measured by a UV transmittance analyzer. <br /> <br /> Influence of dyeing and chemical finishing on UV transmission: Three cotton fabrics were dyed with three natural colorants. Fabrics were characterized with respect to fabric construction, weight, thickness and thread count. Influence of fabric characteristics on UPF was studied. Role of colorant concentration on the ultraviolet protection factor was examined via color strength analysis. A positive correlation was observed between the weight of the fabric and their UPF values. Similarly, thicker fabrics offered more protection from ultraviolet rays. Thread count appears to negatively correlate with UPF. Dyeing with natural colorants dramatically increased the protective abilities of all three fabric constructions. Additionally, as the colorant concentration in the fabric increased the UPF values also improved. <br /> <br /> In a second study, the UV protective ability of a knit bamboo fabric was studied. Raw bamboo fabric was found to afford poor protection against UV radiation. To enhance UV protection characteristics fabrics were subjected to three different treatments viz., dyeing; finishing with a UV absorber; and one-bath simultaneous dyeing and finishing with UV absorber. All three treatment conditions were optimized with regard to the concentration of UV absorber and dye. Results showed that the UPF values increase with increase in UV absorber and dye concentration. <br /> <br /> Influence of enzymatic treatment onUV properties: The enzymatic action of cellulase on cellulose is a surface phenomenon that results in significant morphological changes in the treated fabrics. Cotton knit fabric was treated with cellulase and the effect of structural changes on Percent Cover and UPF was examined. Results showed that enzymatic treatment increased the ultraviolet protective ability of the cotton knit fabric. Rate of agitation and duration of treatment were important parameters influencing the UPF value. The increase in UPF after enzymatic treatment is probably due to a decrease in porosity. It may also be that enzymatic treatment by degrading and removing the protruding microfibrils leads to a more compact knit structure thereby making the fabric more opaque to UV radiation. <br /> <br /> UV properties of nonwovens: The objective of this study was to determine the UPF of six selected nonwovens. The UPF values obtained were analyzed vis-à-vis the fiber content, thickness and weight of the nonwovens. Data obtained show that fiber content has a significant influence on the UPF value and hence the protective ability of a nonwoven substrate. Nonwoven substrates with bleached cotton fibers afford very little UVR protection. Likewise, nonwovens with white undyed rayon fibers offer poor protection. However, bleached cotton fibers blended with combernoil waste increases the category of protection to Good. Nonwoven from wool fiber was found to have a high UPF value and can be classified in the Excellent UV Protection category. Polyester nonwovens fell in the Good UV Protection category. The best UV protection ability was exhibited by a composite of polyester, rayon and activated carbon suggesting that activated carbon is a very potent absorber of UV radiation. A positive correlation was observed between the weight and thickness of the nonwovens and UPF values. Heavier and thicker nonwovens permit less UVR to be transmitted presumably because smaller spaces are available for the radiation to pass through. <br /> <br /> Illinois:<br /> Barrier studies: Challenge liquids for determining barrier efficacy of PPE materials were selected, alternate methods of measuring repellency, retention and penetration of the challenge liquids and pesticides were developed, and predictive models for assessing barrier efficacy of woven and non-woven fabrics used for chemical protective clothing were developed.<br /> An Inter-laboratory Round Robin test, using the gravimetric method was completed in conjunction with the submission of a Draft Proposal, ISO/DIS22608 to the International Standards Organization (ISO).<br /> Iowa collected survey data on consumer preferences for sun-safe shirt features and sun safety attitudes at a Farm Progress Show sun-safety exhibit. Visitor responses (n = 1,508) suggested the need for further education to achieve behavior modification to limit exposure to the suns ultraviolet rays.<br /> Michigan conducted two field experiments and a computer simulation to assess UV exposure to human subjects. The field experiments demonstrated that heavier shirt-weight fabrics and UV specialized fabrics were more effective in reducing UV exposure. Based on the field test results, a golf shirt was designed and variables that predict sun protective behaviors, and predictors of intention to buy were identified based. <br /> Analyses of two field experiments in which measurement of UV exposure were made using polysulphone film dosimeters on the body, over and under clothing were conuducted.<br /> A survey of 1,804 farmers was conducted resulting in information on sun practices, attitudes and clothing preferences. <br /> Maryland, Illinois and New York:<br /> ISO standard developed: ISO 22608 Protective clothing  Protection against liquid chemicals  Measurement of repellency, retention, and penetration of liquid pesticide formulations through protective clothing materials has been completed by MD, IL, and NY and the standard has been published by ISO<br /> Minnesotas projects included improving fit and sizing of LCVG garments, a study of a full range of body sizes, and PPE analysis using motion capture.<br /> <br /> Fit and Sizing of LCVG garments: A collaborative project with the UMN Laboratory for Health and Human Performance in Extreme Environments lead to improved fit of several LCVG (liquid cooling ventilation garment) for use by NASA. Scan data and fit analysis were used to improve fit of 3 garments; a full body suit, a hood, and hand warming liner for space gloves. Three problems with current suits designs were identified: fabric structure and consistency, tubing layout and attachment, and fit to maintain optimum placement of tubing (mechanism used to transfer body heat). Suit design was improved with new textile structures, tubing placement and attachment methods.<br /> <br /> Full size range body scan analysis: A study of body size variation throughout a size range was conducted with nine participants selected to represent misses sizes 6 to 3X. Participants were also categorized by body mass index from normal to overweight. Body shapes and sizes were analyzed through body measurements and body scans. Horizontal cross-section shape analysis was used to determine weight distribution and profile slicing was used to determine posture variations. Results indicate that women with higher BMIs have different body weight distributions and warrant apparel pattern shaping methods that are entirely different from current industry methods. Results from this study will be used to develop PPE for a variety of body shapes and sizes. <br /> <br /> PPE analysis using motion capture: Funding was secured to initiate a collaborative project with a colleague in the UMN Plant Pathology Department who conducts pesticide applicator trainings. Plans have been developed to incorporate more information on PPE into his training sessions. HDL researchers used the motion capture system to determine usefulness of assessing motion of workers in minimal clothing and protective garments. <br /> Restricted motion is very evident from early analysis of motion data, showing reduced angle measurements for key motion sequences. A second grant was secured to purchase a newer model motion capture system dedicated to motion analysis of protective apparel. A direct signal system is being evaluated that would be used in conjunction with the current passive marker system.<br /> <br /> Missouri joined the project in 2006 and worked on the cooperative protective coverall project. Data were collected by CA and NY with MO participating in two virtual design sessions with collaborators from NY, MN, and CA. These sessions included discussion of poor fit observed in photographs compiled by NY, the results from the user study and preliminary design goals. The team will be working to design protective apparel to improve moisture and heat transfer, reduce tearing, and improve fit. Fabrics for the project have been researched and design solutions sought to address fit and safety issues. Several appropriate fabric samples have been identified.<br /> New Yorks projects focused on product development and human factors for improved PPE design.<br /> Barrier membrane: A novel microporous membrane that responds to moisture/liquid content was developed by grafting polyethylene glycol on microporous polyurethane membrane. Results from image analysis and flow porometry indicated that the PEG grafting occurred on the membrane surface and within the pores. Testing with a flow porometer indicated pores were either closed or reduced to 13 nm or less when saturated with the wetting liquid. This reduction in the pore sizes restricts both liquid penetration, and prevents pathogen penetration at the level specified by ASTM F1671 (27 nm).<br /> <br /> Antimicrobial microporous polyurethane membrane: An antimicrobial membrane with good barrier and hygiene protection and sufficient water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) was developed. Briefly, a moiety of 2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-imidozalidin-4-one (TMIO) hydantoin was successfully grafted onto microporous polyurethane (PU) membrane surface as an N-halamine precursor. Surface grafting was confirmed by attenuated total reflectance mode Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectrometer (XPS). The hydrophilicity change was evidenced by the contact angle results with 58 ± 3 º for TMIO modified PU membranes, as compared to 123 ± 3 º of the control PU membranes. Upon exposure to chlorine bleaching, the hydantoin structures on the grafted PU membranes were transformed into N-halamines. The microbial activities of these membranes were tested with Gram-negative bacteria E. coli and Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus. A total reduction of both bacteria types occurred after a two-hour contact period. WVTR remained essentially unchanged after surface modification with TMIO. <br /> <br /> Antimicrobial nanofibrous nylon 6 membranes: To enhance barrier properties while maintaining sufficient comfort, antimicrobial nanofibrous nylon 6 membranes were fabricated through electrospinning. Three structurally different N-halamine additives, chlorinated 5,5-dimethylhydantoin (CDMH), chlorinated 2,2,5,5-tetramethyl- imidozalidin-4-one (CTMIO), and chlorinated 3Dodecyl-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (CDDMH) were introduced into the electrospinning dope. Effects of N-halamine addition on the properties of electrospun nanofibrous membranes were investigated using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and attenuated total reflectance mode Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the presence of N-halamines in the nylon 6 system induced the formation of ³ phase crystals (TmH212 °C), and the fraction of ³ form crystals increased with the increase in the N-halamine content. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping patterns confirmed the uniform distribution of N-halamines on the membrane surface. All the N-halamine containing membranes showed significant antimicrobial properties. CDMH containing nylon 6 membranes showed much more powerful antimicrobial effects (10 min for total killing) than membranes containing CTMIO and CDDMH, (30 min). No significant effects on the mechanical properties of nylon 6 membranes were observed due to the addition of N-halamines. <br /> Sun protection: NY and MI assessed the effectiveness of 5 hat styles worn by participants assuming 3 body positions for playing golf for different sun angles and orientations to the sun in a 3D scan study. 3D scans were assessed to determine their usefulness for the functional designer. The surface area of the body shaded by the hats for each sun angle and body orientation to the sun was calculated for each hat style, and hats were ranked according to protection offered. The hats that were most popular with golfers provided the least protection.<br /> Fit of cooling vest prototypes: OK and NY tested the fit of two prototype cooling garments worn under chemical protective ensembles using a 3D body scanner. Since conduction is the operative cooling transfer mechanism, a close fitting garment regardless of body position is essential. Seven subjects were scanned in three body positions wearing each of the two prototype garments. Visual analysis of the scans, and measurements of differences between cross sections of the body and the vest identified the best fitting prototype.<br /> Coveralls for agricultural workers: NY and CA collected data from 62 agricultural workers through interviews, photographs of working positions, and questionnaires. More than 250 photographs were taken to document working positions and fit issues. A password protected website with photographs and data analyses was made available to design team members from NY, CA, MN, and MO to guide development of design parameters for PPE with improved protection and comfort. The team participated in 3 design sessions (2 by videoconference), and is designing a disposable protective coverall to reduce tearing, and to improve comfort and fit. Four prototype designs have been developed. The most promising design will be tested in active positions. <br /> Validation of fit analysis from 3D scans: NY continues to validate scanner procedures and experiments with scans of clothed subjects and subjects in working positions. A study of the reliability of 3D body scans for fit analysis has been conducted. Statistical analysis of fit assessments of 153 scans by five judges showed that two judges are sufficient for reliable fit ratings if visual fit parameters are established and clearly defined. Visual analysis of fit from scans was generally effective; however, complex areas of misfit that are difficult to rate visually, such as the crotch, will require additional assessment methods. <br /> Body measurements in active positions: A study of change in body measurements of the shoulder and arm in working positions was conducted using the body scanner. Data were collected for 25 subjects in four different arm and shoulder positions. Comparisons of 18 upper torso measurements between the active body positions and the anthropometric position showed significant changes in 41 percent of the measurement values. A second study of the variation in body measurements between standing and seated postures conducted with 48 female subjects showed that differences in measurements increase in circumferences and breadths, while crotch lengths decrease when the subject sits. The variation in these measurement changes were investigated for different sizes of subjects (categorized by BMI). A tendency was observed of measurements to increase or decrease (crotch length) as the BMI values increase, with significant differences occurring at the hip circumference, waist and thigh breadths.<br /> Oklahoma completed three major research projects in the product development area. Each study had funding from external sources and contained multiple components. A 3-year project to develop a micro-climate personal, portable cooling system was funded by the Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism. The second study, a proof-of-concept study to develop a chemical sensing textile, was funded by the National Science Foundation and U.S. Intelligence Community through Approaches to Combat Terrorism program. The third study, development of arm and leg body armor to protect against shrapnel from IEDs and small arms, was funded by FSTechnology, LLC, through the Naval Research Laboratory.<br /> <br /> Cooling vest study: The MIPT funded project resulted in the development of a liquid-cooled vest interfaced with a cooler unit. A thermal manikin study conducted by the US Army (Natick facility) showed the effectiveness of the design. A masters thesis fit study was completed using Cornell's 3D body scanner (collaboration with Ashdown NY) (J. Nam's thesis). A human subject physiological study showed the effectiveness of the cooling system when worn under level A and B chemical protective ensembles under simulated working conditions (S. Peksoz dissertation). Work on making the cooling unit smaller, and less heavy was continued with NanoPore. Inc providing leadership with funding from Phase I and II HSARPA grants.<br /> <br /> Detection smart textile study: The NSF project explored using porphyrins as coloring agents whose spectral shift when bound with chemicals was used to detect toxic chemicals in the environment. Cyanide (NaCN), organophosphate (diazinon) and carbamate (carbaryl) were the target toxic chemicals. Using a desktop spectrophotometer Cary 300 with an integrated sphere as the measurement instrument, NaCN, diazinon and carbaryl can be detected by porphyrins in solution and porphyrin dyed cotton fabrics. A smart textile prototype was developed using sensing components including a LED light source powered by a 9-voltage battery, a portable Ocean Optics USB2000 spectrophotometer as spectral measurement device, and optical fiber cable to transmit light. The smart textile prototype successfully detected NaCN but not diazinon. We think that the prototype smart textile did not detect diazinon due to the use of the USB2000 spectrophotometer whose sensitivity is not as good as the Cary 300 spectrophotometer. <br /> <br /> Body armor: The FST/NRL funded project included multiple iterations of design, testing and redesign resulting in the development of QuadGard® extremity protection system. Design/redesign and prototype production were done at OSU, testing was done at multiple military facilities, and injury data from the medical community treating US troops served as a design input. The arm and leg body armor uses Dyncema ballista materials and was designed to be worn with the existing Interceptor Body Armor (vest) and the future Marine Tactical Vest. Over 5,000 units of Phase IV were produced, primarily for the US Marine Corps, by CoverCraft Inc, an Oklahoma Sewn products manufacturer. OSU worked with FST to manage the technology transfer processes required to move from OSU laboratory prototypes to a mass produced system for deployment to Iraq where they are currently being used. A Phase V extremity protection system was also designed. This system differs from the Phase IV system in that components of the Phase V unit can be detached to allow for tailoring the armor for specific missions. CovcrCraft has produced 900 of the Phase V units for the US Marine Corps for deployment for Iraq. A patent has been filed for QuadGard®.<br /> <br /> Objective 2: To examine user acceptance and barriers to acceptance of PPE products and practices.<br /> <br /> California conducted a survey of healthcare workers and purchasing agents regarding attitudes toward medical textiles. Purchasing agents were found to place more emphasis on external issues such as compliance with regulations and price, whereas healthcare workers emphasized the personal aspects of medical textiles such as barrier protection. Attitudes toward switching from one product to another and subjective norms were significant predictors of adoption of an improved medical textile product in the purchasing agent group but not in the healthcare worker group.<br /> Iowa developed outreach exhibits highlighting use of hats and shirts as a means of sun protection.<br /> Minnesota continued collaboration with UMES in delivery of the Minnesota Sun Smart program, now in its 14th year, to educate citizens of Minnesota about safety measures to prevent over-exposure to sun/UV rays. Outreach programs have been developed for children and teens, outdoor workers and the general public. The program is continually updated and revised incorporating new findings on sun protection and making it relevant to new audiences. Linkages are maintained with a Minnesota sun protective clothing catalog distributor, Coolibar.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: to develop performance specifications for protective clothing materials.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Maryland developed an online system for agricultural workers and a statistical model for pesticide penetration, continued several studies as background to performance specification, analyzed laboratory tests and field exposure data, and developed performance specifications, and an interlaboratory testing protocol.<br /> <br /> Online system for agricultural workers: An online system,Work and Protective Clothing for Agricultural Workers was developed providing access to a large body of technical data pertaining to clothing worn by agricultural workers. The system was revised in 2007. This information can be used to: compare worker exposure fabrics with those commonly used by pesticide applicators, select materials and garments for agricultural uses, and design and develop garments for agricultural use <br /> <br /> Statistical model to estimate pesticide penetration: Data for over 100 fabrics tested at UMES were used to develop a statistical model to estimate the percent penetration of pesticide through the fabrics. The model was included in the initial version of the online system. The scope of the statistical model was limited to penetration measurement of homogeneous formulations through woven fabrics with no repellent finish. Due to the limited scope, the predictive model was not included in the revised version of the online system.<br /> <br /> Several studies as background to performance specification were conducted to fill in gaps in information so that performance specifications can be based on scientific data. These studies are briefly described:<br /> A study to determine the testing required to measure protective performance of repellent fabrics under varied conditions was conducted. Twenty-one cotton, cotton/polyester and polyester fabrics with repellent finishes were tested. A wash-test sequence cycle was used to measure fabric performance after repeated laundering, and a wash-iron-test sequence was used to measure performance after washing and ironing. <br /> Studies to compare percent penetration of pesticides through laundered fabrics using accelerated as well as home laundering methods were conducted. Results were used to specify the number of launderings required as part of fabric preparation for performance specifications.<br /> Studies to determine percent penetration through fabric with and without seams were conducted. Seams of all garments in the UMES collection were used for the study. Results of the study were used to develop performance specifications. <br /> <br /> Laboratory tests to screen fabrics to screen fabrics for Safe Use Initiatives (SUI) in Southern Europe were conducted. In addition to inclusion in the database, the information was used to select fabrics for worker exposure studies conducted by groups in Greece and Portugal. A memorandum of understanding was signed between CropLife International and UMES to allow access to proprietary worker exposure data for development of performance specifications.<br /> <br /> Laboratory tests and field exposure data: Laboratory data for 130 fabrics and field exposure data provided by CropLife International were analyzed and used to develop performance specifications.<br /> <br /> Performance specification developed: A draft entitled Protective clothing  Performance specification for protective clothing for horticultural and agricultural pesticide applicators was developed and circulated to NC 170 members as well as individuals in industry, academia, and governmental agencies in several countries. Comments provided were used to revise the draft, which is currently being balloted by ASTM International (WK 10555) as well as ISO (ISO/CD 27065). <br /> <br /> Interlaboratory testing protocol is being conducted to develop the precision and bias statement for an ASTM standard. Protocol was developed for interlaboratory testing, and materials and supplies (including the challenge liquid) were shipped to each laboratory. A website that includes a training video and a PowerPoint presentation was developed to train individuals participating in the study.<br /> <br /> New York studied PPE acceptance and use and continued outreach programming to PPE applicators.<br /> Use of cotton liners with CRG: IA and NY studied greenhouse workers acceptance of cotton knit gloves worn as liners under nitrile chemical resistant gloves (CRG) for pesticide application. Comfort was assessed by questionnaires and interviews with 10 applicators who reported increased comfort when wearing the liners. Contamination levels of four pesticides were determined by chemical analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography or gas chromatography. Applicators reported increased comfort with cotton liners than without. Contamination was significantly greater on nitrile CRG than on cotton liners underneath, but a few liner specimens had measurable contamination. <br /> Use of PPE and Engineering Controls: IA, MI, and NY conducted a survey of 702 pesticide applicators to assess the use of 16 types of engineering controls and 13 types of personal protective equipment (PPE). Results showed that 8 of 16 engineering devices were adopted by more than 50% of the respondents. The size of operation, type of application equipment, and type of crops influenced the adoption of engineering controls. Respondents reported a high level of PPE use, with chemical resistant gloves showing the highest level of compliance. The majority of respondents did not wear less PPE when using engineering controls. Those who modified their PPE choices when using engineering controls used tractors with enclosed cabs and/or were vegetable growers. Pesticide applicators obtained information about PPE from training sessions, manuals, and farm/crop magazines. Fewer than 20 percent use the Internet for information about PPE. <br /> Outreach on PPE continued for pesticide applicators, their families, and educators through certification training, exhibits, publications, seminars, workshops, websites, and telephone consulting. Educational resources were developed on these topics: engineering controls, indoor pollutants, glove liners, and childrens health issues related to pesticide exposure. NY maintained the project website <http://hosts.cce.cornell.edu/txnc170> that received approximately 2600 hits annually. <br /> Oklahoma Cooling Vest Study: A series of 6 focus groups in 5 U.S. cities were conducted as part of the cooling vest development project. The target user was a HAZMAT worker wearing level A and B ensembles, with a 30-minute mission and an average body heat dissipation of 180 Watts. The purpose of the focus groups was to determine user needs, wants and concerns early and progressively throughout the development of the prototype system to serve as design input. The data were also used for development of the protocol for the physiology study. <br /> <br /> <br />

Publications

NC-170 Compilation of Publications from 2003-2007<br /> <br /> Objective 1. To improve protection and human factor performance of PPE through product development.<br /> Publications:<br /> Refereed Publications:<br /> <br /> In Print Full Length Articles:<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P. & Dunne, L., (2006) A study of automated custom fit: Readiness of the technology for the apparel industry, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, Focused Issue on Fit, 24(2), 121-136.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P., Loker, S., Schoenfelder, K. A., and Lyman-Clarke, L. Using 3D Scans for Fit Analysis. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 4,(1) www.tx.ncsu.edu/jtatm/volume4issue1/articles/Loker/Loker_full_103_04.pdf (2004)<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P. & OConnell, E. K., (2006) Comparison of test protocols for judging the fit of mature womens apparel, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, Focused Issue on Fit, 24(2), 137-146.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P., Slocum, A., & Lee Y. A., (2005) The third dimension for apparel designers: Visual assessment of hat designs for sun protection using 3-D scan images, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 23 (3), 151-164.<br /> <br /> Branson, D.H., Farr, C.A., Peksoz, S., Nam, J., and Cao, H., (2005). Development of a prototype personal cooling system for the first responders: User Feedback. Journal of ASTM International, 2(2), 1-11. <br /> <br /> Bye, E. & LaBat, K. (2005). An analysis of apparel industry fit session. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology Management, 4(3). 1-5. <br /> <br /> Bye, E., LaBat, K., & DeLong, M. (2006). Analysis of body measurement systems for apparel. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal , 24(2), 66-79. <br /> <br /> Cai, Z. and Gang Sun, (2004). Antimicrobial Finishing of Acrilan Fabrics with Cetylpyridinium Chloride, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Vol. 94. 243-247.<br /> <br /> Cai, Z. and Gang Sun, (2005). Antimicrobial Finishing of Acrilan Fabrics with Cetylpyridinium Chloride, Affected Properties and Structures submitted to Journal of Applied Polymer Science. V97, No. 3, 1227-1236 <br /> <br /> Cao, H. Branson, D.H., Nam, J., Peksoz, S. and Farr, C.A. (2005). Development of a cooling capability test method for liquid-cooled textile systems. Journal of ASTM International, 2(1), 1-10. <br /> <br /> Cao, H., Branson, D. H., Peksoz, S., Nam , J., & Farr, C. A. (2006). Fabric selection for a liquid cooling garment. Textile Research Journal, 76(7), 587-595. <br /> <br /> Cao, H., Nam, J., Harmon, H. J., & Branson, D. H. (2007). Spectrophotometric detection of organophosphate diazinon by porphyrin solution and porphyrin-dyed cotton fabric. Dyes and Pigments, 74(1), 176-180.<br /> <br /> Chinnasami, S., and Ramkumar, S. S., (2003), Development of a Fabric Friction Calculator, AATCC Review, 3 (11), 20-23. <br /> <br /> Dunne, L. E., Ashdown, S. P., & Smyth, B. Expanding Garment Functionality through Embedded Electronic Technology, Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management 4(3). 2005. <http://www.tx.ncsu.edu/jtatm/volume4issue3/articles/Nam/Nam_full_138_05.pdf> <br /> <br /> Gaan, S. and Sun, G. (2007) Effect of Phosphorus and Nitrogen on Flame Retardant Cellulose: A Study of Phosphorus Compounds, Journal of Analytical & Applied Pyrolysis, 78, 371-377<br /> <br /> Gao, J., Pan, N., and Yu, W. (2007).Golden Mean and Fractal Dimension of Goose Down. International Journal of Nonlinear Sciences and Numerical Simulation. 8 (1), 113-116.<br /> <br /> Griffey, J. V. & Ashdown, S. P., (2006) Development of an automated process for the creation of a basic skirt block pattern from 3D body scan data, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal Focused Issue on Fit, 24(2), 112-120.<br /> <br /> Haise, C. L., & Rucker, M. (2003). The flight attendant uniform: Effects of selected variables on flight attendant image, uniform preferences and employee satisfaction. Social Behavior and Personality, 31 (6), 565-576.<br /> <br /> Hermann, D., Ramkumar, S. S., Seshaiyer, P. Parameswaran, S. (2004), Frictional Study of Woven Fabric: Relationship Between Friction and Velocity of Testing, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 92 (4), 2420-2424. <br /> <br /> Hild, D. N., Obendorf, S. K., and Fok, W. Y. Mapping of Spin Finish Oils on Nylon 66 Fibers, Textile Research Journal 74 (3):187-192 (2004)<br /> <br /> Huang, L.K. and Sun, G. (2003) Durable and Oxygen Bleach Rechargeable Antimicrobial Cellulose: Sodium Perborate as an Activating and Recharging Agent, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol. 42. No. 22, 5417-5422.<br /> <br /> Huang, L.K. and Sun, G. (2003), Durable and Regenerable Antimicrobial Cellulose with Oxygen Bleach: Concept Proofing, AATCC Review, V. 3, No. 10, 17-21.<br /> <br /> Jain, R. and Raheel, M. (2003). Barrier Efficacy of Woven and Non-woven Fabrics Used for Protective Clothing: Predictive Models. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination & Toxicology, 71: (3), 437-446.<br /> <br /> Kim, J., Stone, J., Crews, P., Shelley II, M., & Hatch, K.L., (2004) Improving Knit Fabric UPF Using consumer Laundry Products: A Comparison of Results Using Two Instruments. Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 33: 141-158.<br /> <br /> Kline, A.A., Landers, A.J., Hedge, A., Lemley, A.T., Obendorf, S.K., and Dokuchayeva, T. (2003). Pesticide Exposure Levels on Surfaces within Sprayer Cabs. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 19(4):397-404 <br /> <br /> Krenzer, G., Starr, C., and Branson, D. (2005). Development of a sports bra prototype: Patternworks international best solution to a patternmaking problem. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 3; vol. 23: pp. 131 - 134.<br /> <br /> LaBat, K. DeLong, M., Gahring, S. (2005). A longitudinal study of sun-protective attitudes and behaviors, Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 33(3), 240-254. <br /> <br /> LaBat, K., Salusso-Deonier, C., & Rhee, J. (2007). Home sewers satisfaction with fit of apparel patterns. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, 11(3).<br /> <br /> Lee, J. & Ashdown, S. P., (2005) Upper body change analysis using 3-D body scanner, Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles, English Edition 29 (12), 1595-1607.<br /> <br /> Lee, Y. A., Ashdown, S. P., Slocum, A. C. (2006) Measurement of surface area of 3-D body scans to assess the effectiveness of hats for sun protection. Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal 34(4), 366-385. Available at http://fcs.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/34/4/366.<br /> <br /> Lee, Seungsin and Obendorf, S. Kay. Barrier Effectiveness and Thermal Comfort of Protective Clothing Materials, Journal of the Textile Institute, 98:87-97 (2007).<br /> <br /> Lee, Seungsin and Obendorf, S. Kay. Developing Protective Textile Materials as Barriers to Liquid Penetration Using Melt-Electrospinning, Journal of Applied Polymer Science 102: 3430-3437 (2006).<br /> <br /> Lee, Seungsin and Obendorf, S. Kay. Statistical Model of Pesticide Penetration through Woven Work Clothing Fabrics, Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 49. 2005.<br /> <br /> Lee, Seungsin and Obendorf, S. Kay. Transport Properties of Layered Fabric Systems Based on Electrospun Nanofibers, Fibers and Polymers 2007, Vol.8, No.3,.<br /> <br /> Liu, S. and Sun, G. (2006). Durable and Regenerable Biocidal Polymers: Acyclic N-halamine Cotton Cellulose, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, 45 (19), 6477-6492<br /> <br /> Liuyang Wang, Xie J, Gu LX, & Gang Sun (2006). Preparation of antimicrobial polyacrylonitrile fibers: Blending with polyacrylonitrile-co-3-allyl-5,5-dimethylhydantoin , Polymer Bulletin , 56 (2-3): 247-256. <br /> <br /> Loker, S., Ashdown, S. P., & Schoenfelder, K. Size-specific Analysis of Body Scan Data to Improve Apparel Fit, Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 4(3). 2005. <br /> < http://www.tx.ncsu.edu/jtatm/volume4issue3/articles/Loker/Loker_full_136_05.pdf><br /> <br /> Loker, S., Cowie, L. S., Ashdown, S., and Lewis, V. D. Consumer Reactions to Body Scanning. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 22 (4): 151-160. (2004)<br /> <br /> Lukas, D. & Pan, N. (2003). Wetting of a fiber bundle in fibrous structures. Polymer Composites, 24, 314-322.<br /> <br /> Lukas,D., V. Soukupova, Ning Pan and D. V. Parikh, (205) Computer Simulation of 3-D Liquid Transport in Fibrous Materials, SIMULATION: Transactions of SMS, 80, 547 - 557. <br /> <br /> Ma, M., Sun, Y., & Sun, G. (2003). Antimicrobial cationic dyes: Part 1: synthesis and characterization. Dyes and Pigments, 58, 27-35.<br /> <br /> Ma, M. and Sun, G. (2004), Antimicrobial Cationic Dyes: Part 2: Thermal and Hydrolytic Stability, Dyes and Pigments, 63, No. 1, 39-49<br /> <br /> Ma, M. and Gang Sun, (2005) Antimicrobial Cationic Dyes: Part 3: Simultaneous dyeing and antimicrobial finishing of acrylic fabrics, Dyes and Pigments, V66, No. 1, 33-41 <br /> <br /> Matic, Peter, and Habler, G. (2005). Extreme Armor. Armed Forces Journal. 2, 49-50.<br /> <br /> Moran Wang, Jinku Wang, Ning Pan, and Shiyi Chen, ( 2007). Mesoscopic predictions of the effective thermal conductivity for microscale random porous media, Physical Review E, 75, 036702-036710.<br /> <br /> Nam , J., Branson, D.H., Ashdown, S., Cao, H., Jin, B., Peksoz, S., and Farr, C. (2005). Fit analysis of liquid cooled vest prototypes using 3D body scanning technology. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management , 4(3).<br /> <br /> Nicas, M., and Sun, G. (2006). An Integrated Model of Infection Risk in a Health-Care Environment, Risk Analysis, 26(4), 1185-1096<br /> <br /> Obendorf, S. Kay. Microscopy to Define Soil, Fabric and Detergent Formulation Characteristics that Affect Detergency: A Review, AATCC Review 4 (1):17-23 (2004)<br /> <br /> Obendorf, S.K., Csiszar, E., Maneefuangfoo, D., Borsa, J. (2003). Kinetic Study of Transport of Pesticide from Contaminated Fabric Through a Model Skin. Archive of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 45(2): 283-288.<br /> <br /> Obendorf, S. K., Kim, J., and Kuniz, R. Measurement of Odor Development Due to Bacterial Action on Antimicrobial Polyester Fabrics, AATCC Review, 7(7):35-40 (2007).<br /> <br /> Obendorf, S.K., Lemley, A.T., Hedge, A., Kline, A.A., Tan, K., Dokuchayeva, T., Distribution of Pesticide Residue within Homes in Central New York State, Archive of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology , 50:31-44 (2006). <br /> <br /> Peksoz, S., Branson, D., Cao, H., Jacobson, B., Farr, C., Nam, J. (2006). Evaluation of two liquid cooled prototype vests through human subject testing. Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, 10(3), 17-27.<br /> <br /> Qian, L. and Sun, G. (2003), Durable and Regenerable Antimicrobial Textiles: Synthesis and Applications of 3-Methylol-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-imidazolidin-4-one (MTMIO), Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 89, 2418-2425. <br /> <br /> Qian, L. and Gang Sun, (2005). Durable and Regenerable Antimicrobial Textiles: Chlorine Transfer among Halamine Structures, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research. V44, No. 4, p853-856 <br /> <br /> Qian, L. and Sun, G. (2004), Durable and Regenerable Antimicrobial Textiles: Improving Efficacy and Durability of Biocidal Functions, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 91, 2588-2593.<br /> <br /> Qian, L., Williams, J., Chen, J., and Sun, G. (2006). Durable and Regenerable Antimicrobial Textiles: Thermal Stability of Halamine Structures, AATCC Review, V(9), 55-60<br /> <br /> Ramkumar, S. S., Rajanala, R., Parameswaran, S., Paige, R., Shaw, A., Shelly, D. C., Anderson, T. A., Cobb, G. P., Mahmud, R., Roedel, C., and Tock, R.W. (2004), Experimental Verification of Failure of Amontons Law in Polymeric Textiles, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 91 (6), pp. 3879-3885. <br /> <br /> Ramkumar, S.S., Rajanala, R., Parameswaram, S., Sarkar, A.K. and Sawhney, A.P.S., Friction Characterization of polymeric materials-A review, AATCC Review, 2005 5(2), 17-20<br /> <br /> Ramkumar, S. S., and Roedel, C., (2003), A Study of the Needle Penetration Speeds on the Frictional Properties of Nonwoven Webs: A New Approach, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 89 (13), 3626-3631. <br /> <br /> Ramkumar, S. S., Umrani, A., Shelly, D. C., Tock, R. W., Parameswaran, S. and Smith, M. L., (2004), Study of the Effect of Sliding Velocity on the Frictional Properties of Nonwoven Substrates, Wear, 256, 221-225. <br /> <br /> Rucker, M. (2006). The effects of silk screened emblems on thermal protection of wildland fire fighter protective clothing systems under two moisture conditions. Report to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. <br /> <br /> Rucker, M., Crown, E. and Haise, C. (2006). The Effects of Silk Screened Emblems on Thermal Protective Performance of Wildland Fire Fighter Protective Clothing Systems under Two Moisture Conditions, Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, 10(4), 55-60.<br /> <br /> Sandstrom, A., and Sun, G. (2006), Durability of Biocidal Nomex Fabrics for Multi-functional Firefighter Uniforms, Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, 10(4), 13-18.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. (2004). An evaluation of UV protection imparted by cotton fabrics dyed with natural colorants. BMC Dermatology, 4 :15 , Paper doi:10.1186/1471-5945-4-15. Retrieved July 26, 2005, from http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-5945/4/15. <br /> <br /> Schofield, N., Ashdown, S., Hethorn, J., LaBat, K., & Salusso, C. (2006). Improving apparel fit for women 55 and older through an exploration of two pant shapes. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 24(2), 147-160. <br /> <br /> Schofield, N. & LaBat, K. (2005) Defining and testing the assumptions used in current apparel grading practice. Clothing and Textile Research Journal. 23(3), 135-150 <br /> <br /> Schofield, N. & LaBat, K. (2005). Exploring the relationships of grading, sizing and anthropometric data. Clothing and Textile Research Journal, 23(1), 13-27. <br /> <br /> Shastri, L., Ramkumar, S. S., Sarkar, A., Shelly, D. C., and Tock, R. W., Frictional Studies of a Novel Antiballistic Chest Shield, AATCC Review, 5 (4): 25-29 APR 2005.<br /> <br /> Song, K. & Stone, J.F. (2005) J.F. Shirt Designs for Sun Protection, Journal of Environmental Health, 67 (10), 50-56.<br /> <br /> Starr, C., Branson, D.H., Shehab, R., Farr, C., Ownbey, S., and Swinney, J. (2005). Biomechanical analysis of a prototype sports bra. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Managament, 4(3).<br /> <br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P. M., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Cotton Liners to Mediate Glove Comfort for Greenhouse Applicators, Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 48: 1-9. 2005.<br /> <br /> Stone J.F., Kim J., Branson, D.H., Peksoz, S. (2003) An exploratory wear study of experimental sun hat designs. Journal of the Korean Society for Clothing Industry, 5(6)565-573. December. <br /> <br /> Sun, G. and S. Dave Worley, (2005). Chemistry of Durable and Regenerable Biocidal Textiles. Journal of Chemical Education, V82, No. 1 p60-64<br /> <br /> Sun, Y. and Sun, G. (2003), Novel Refreshable N-Halamine Polymeric Biocides: Grafting Hydantoin-Containing Monomers onto High-Performance Fibers by a Continuous Process, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. V88, 1032-1039.<br /> <br /> Sun, Y. and Gang Sun, (2004). Novel Refreshable N-Halamine Polymeric Biocides: N Chlorination of Aromatic Polyamides, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol. 43, 5015-5020.<br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf, S. K. Development of an antimicrobial microporous polyurethane barrier membrane, Journal of Membrane Science, 289:199-209 (2007). <br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf, S. K. Surface Modification of Micro-porous Polyurethane Membrane with Poly (ethylene glycol) to Develop a Hybrid Membrane, Journal of Membrane Science, 274:150-158 (2006).<br /> <br /> Thandavmoorthy Subbiah, Bhat, G. S., Tock, R. W., Parameswaran, S. and Ramkumar, S. S. (2005), Electrospinning of Nanofiber, Journal of Appl. Polym. Sci., Vol. 96(2), 557-569. <br /> <br /> Thanikavelan, P., Krishnaraj, K., Chandrasekaran, B., Shelly,D.C., Ramkumar, S.S. Influence of test length on the tensile properties of upholstery leather: Relation to weak link theory, Journal of the American Leather Chemists Association 102 (1): 10-15 Jan 2007. <br /> <br /> Wang, M., He,J., Wang, J., Chen, S. and Pan, N. (2007). Three dimensional influences on the effective thermal conductivity of porous media, Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, 40, 260-265.<br /> <br /> Wen Zhong, Malcolm MQ Xing, Ning Pan & Howard I Maibach, Textiles and human skin, microclimate, cutaneous reactions: An overview, Journal of Toxicology : Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology , 25 (1): 23-39. <br /> <br /> Wu, J. and Ning Pan, Grab and Strip Tensile Strengths for Woven Fabrics: An Experimental Verification, Textile Research Journal, 11 2005; vol. 75: pp. 789 - 796.<br /> <br /> Xin Fei, T. Shibamoto, Pengfei Gao, & Gang Sun (2006). Pesticide detoxifying functions and N-halamine fabrics, Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology , available online. <br /> <br /> Xing, M.M.Q., Zhiguo Sun, Wen Zhong, Ning Pan & Howard Maibach, An EFE model on skin - sleeve interactions during arm rotation , ASME Journal of Biomechnical Engineering , 128, 872 (2006) . <br /> <br /> Zhang, X. and Raheel, M. (2003). Statistical Model for Predicting Pesticide Penetration in Woven Fabrics Used for Chemical Protective Clothing. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination & Toxicology. 70: (4), 652-659.<br /> <br /> Zhang, Y., Wang, X. and Pan, N, (2003), An Experimental Examination of Fiber Reinforcing Effect in a Novel Composite, Composites Part B: Engineering, Vol 34, 499-505.<br /> <br /> Zhao, T. and Sun, G. (2007). Antimicrobial Finishing of Wool Fabrics with Quaternary Aminopyridinium Salts, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 103, 482-486<br /> <br /> Zhao, T. and Sun, G. (2006). Synthesis and application of Quaternary Aminopyridinium Salts, Journal of Surfactants and Detergents, 9(4), 325-330<br /> <br /> Zhong, W. and Pan, N. (2003), A Computer Simulation of Single Fiber Pull Out Process in a Composite, Journal of Composite Materials, Vol. 37, 1951-1969.<br /> <br /> Zhu, P. and Sun, G. (2004), Antimicrobial Finishing of Wool Fabrics: Using Quaternary Ammonium Salts, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 93. 1037-1041.<br /> <br /> In Press Full Length Articles:<br /> <br /> Ashdown. S.P., Choi, M.S. & Milke, E. Automated side seam placement from 3-D body scan data. in press, International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P. & Loker, S. Target market sizing: A new paradigm for improved apparel fit Proceedings from the 2007 World Congress on Mass Customization and Personalization <br /> <br /> Lee, Seungsin and Obendorf, S. Kay. Use of Electrospun Nanofiber Web for Protective Textile Materials as Barriers to Liquid Penetration, Textile Research Journal (in press)<br /> <br /> Na, H. & Ashdown, S.P. Comparison of 3-D body scan data to quantify upper body postural variation in older and younger women Submitted to Clothing and Textiles Research Journal. (in press)<br /> <br /> Petrova, A. & Ashdown, S.P. 3-D body scan data analysis: Body size and shape dependence of ease values for pants fit. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal. (in press)<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. (2007). On the relationship between fabric processing and ultraviolet radiation transmission. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine (In Press). <br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf*, S. Kay. Fabrication and evaluation of electrospun antimicrobial nanofibrous nylon 6 membranes, Journal of Membrane Science (in press)<br /> <br /> Xing, M.M.Q, Wen Zhong, Ning Pan & Howard Maibach, Numerical model of skin frictional blistering, Skin Science and Technology , in press. <br /> <br /> Non-Refereed Publications:<br /> Ashdown, S.P., Editor. Sizing in Clothing: Developing Effective Sizing Systems for Ready-To-Wear Clothing, Woodhead Publishing Limited, 2007.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P., Smith, J., Loker, S. & Lyman-Clarke, L. Production systems, distribution systems and sizing, In Ashdown, S.P., Editor. Sizing in Clothing: Developing Effective Sizing Systems for Ready-To-Wear Clothing, Woodhead Publishing Limited.<br /> <br /> Branson, D.H. & Nam, J (2007). Materials and sizing, in Ashdown, S.P., Editor. Sizing in Clothing: Developing Effective Sizing Systems for Ready-To-Wear Clothing , Woodhead Publishing Limited.<br /> <br /> Hildebrandt, P. (2006). Last line of defense Industrial Fabric Products Review, July 2006.<br /> <br /> LaBat, K. (2007). Sizing Standardization, in Ashdown, S.P., Editor. Sizing in Clothing: Developing Effective Sizing Systems for Ready-To-Wear Clothing, Woodhead Publishing Limited, 88-107<br /> <br /> Lemley, A.T., Obendorf, S.K., and Hedge, A., Cornell Researchers Measure Pesticide Residues in Central New York State Homes, The Ribbon: A Newsletter of the Cornell University Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors, 12(2):8-9 (Spring 2007).<br /> <br /> Loker, S., Ashdown. S.P., & Carnrite, E. Dress in the third dimension: On-line<br /> interactivity and new meanings, invited paper for a focused issue on the future, in press, <br /> Clothing and Textiles Research Journal.<br /> <br /> Pan, N. (2007) Quantification and evaluation of human tactile sense towards fabrics, Int. Journal of Nature & Design, 1, 48-60 (invited).<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. (2005). Textiles for UV protection. In: Scott, R.A. (Ed.), Textiles for protection. Cambridge , UK : Woodhead Publishing Limited. <br /> <br /> Sun, G and S. D. Worley, (2006) Halamine Chemistry and Its Applications in Biocidal Textiles and Polymers, Chapter 6, Modified Fibers with Medical and Specialty Applications, Editors: J. Vincent Edwards Steven Goheen and Gisela Buschle-Diller, Springer Netherlands, 2006. pp. 81-89<br /> <br /> Thermal and Moisture Transport in Fibrous Material, Edited by Ning Pan and Phil Gibson, Woodhead Publishing Ltd., Cambridge, UK, 656 pages.<br /> <br /> Presentations:<br /> Refereed Presentations:<br /> Ashdown, S.P., Choi, M.S., Raymond, D., and Milke, E. Automated Side Seam Placement from 3-D Body Scan Data. International Textile and Apparel Association Conference, Portland, Oregon. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P. & Loker, S. Improved Apparel Sizing: Fit and Anthropometric 3D Scan Data, (poster) National Textile Center Forum, Hilton Head, SC, Feb. 19-21, 2006. <br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Loker, S., and Adelson, C. Use of Body Scan Data to Design Sizing Systems Based on Target Markets (poster), National Textile Center Forum, February 10-12, 2003.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P., Loker, S., Carnrite, E. Digitizing the Fit Model using 3D Body Scanning Technology. Presentation at the International Foundation of Fashion Technology Institutes Conference, Raleigh , NC , June 18-22 2006. <br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Loker, S., Lyman-Clarke, L., & Schoenfelder, K. Visual Fit Analysis from 3-D Scans (Poster Session), Fiber Society Annual Meeting, Ithaca, NY. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Loker, S., Schoenfelder, K., & Petrova, A. Comparison of Sitting and Standing 3-D Body Measurements of the Lower Body. Symposium on Advanced Materials and Processes, Fiber Society Annual Meeting, Ithaca, NY. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S. P., Petrova, A., & Loker, S. A Comparison of Body Variation Among Women with Different BMI Scores, and Implications for Sizing of Apparel (Poster Session), American Association of Family and Consumer Science, Minneapolis, MN. June 26-27, 2005.<br /> <br /> Bastow-Shoop, H., Hawley, J., Jasper, C., Jolly, L., Damhorst, M., LaBat, K., Lennon, S., Research agenda 2010: Forging new directions and partnerships. NCCC-65 Regional research project presentation. ITAA Special Topic Session, San Antonio, Texas, October, 2006, www.itaaonline.org<br /> <br /> Branson, D.H., Farr, C.A. and Cao, H. Development of a Prototype Personal Cooling System for First Responders in Level A Gear. INFire Annual Conference, Impact of Terrorism in the Information Age, Oklahoma City, OK, May 2003.<br /> <br /> Branson, D.H., Farr, C.A., Peksoz, S., Nam, J., and Cao, H. (2004, January). Development of a prototype personal cooling system for first responders: User input. Eighth ASTM Symposium on Performances of Protective Clothing: Global Needs and Emerging Markets, Tampa, FL. <br /> <br /> Branson, D., Peksoz, S., Ricord, D., Farr, C., and Kumphai, P. (2006, November). Commercializing QuadGard(r) body armor: Initial steps. ITAA Annual Conference, San Antonio , TX .<br /> <br /> Cao, H., Branson, D., Nam, J., Jansen, B., Peksoz, S., and Farr, C. Liquid Cooling Garments: A Study of Water Flow Rate. International Textiles & Apparel Association Annual Conference, Savannah, GA., November 2003<br /> <br /> Cao, H., Branson, D.H., Nam, J., Peksoz, S. and Farr, C.A. (2004, January).Development of a cooling capability test method for liquid-cooled textile systems. Eighth ASTM Symposium on Performances of Protective Clothing: Global Needs and Emerging Markets, Tampa, FL<br /> <br /> Cao, H., Harmon, H. J., & Branson, D. H. (2005, November). Detection of organophosphate by porphyrin solution and porphyrin-dyed cotton fabric. Paper presented at the annual meeting of International Textile and Apparel Association, Alexandria , VA. <br /> <br /> Cao, H., Harmon, H. J., Nam, J., Branson, D. H. (2004, October) Spectroscopic detection of cyanide in water using porphyrin dyed cotton fabrics. Fiber Society Annual Conference, Ithaca, NY. <br /> <br /> Cao, H., Nam, J., Branson, D. H. (accepted). Detection of carbamate by porphyrin solution and porphyrin-dyed mercerized cotton fabric. Oral presentation accepted by the 2007 annual meeting of International Textile and Apparel Association, Los Angeles, CA.<br /> <br /> DeLong, M., LaBat, K., Bye, E. Advancing apparel fit and sizing at the University of Minnesota, Cultural Exchange Project: Mission Continued, International Commemorative Symposium of the 60 th Anniversary of Hong-Ik University, Seoul , Korea , May 2006. <br /> <br /> Gahring, S. & LaBat, K. Ensuring adequate technical skills for clothing design students, International Textiles and Apparel Association, San Antonio, Texas, October, 2006, www.itaaonline.org<br /> <br /> LaBat, K., Bye, E., McKinney, E., & Kim, D. Use of a laboratory notebook as a teaching tool for graduate student research, International Textiles and Apparel Association, San Antonio, Texas, October 2006, www.itaaonline.org<br /> <br /> LaBat, K. & Kim, D. Design process for developing a liquid cooling ventilation garment, International Textiles and Apparel Association, San Antonio, Texas, October 2006, www.itaaonline.org<br /> <br /> Lee, J.R. & Ashdown, S.P. A Comparison of Body Surface Change to Evaluate Traditional and 3-D Body Scan Anthropometric Measures for Dynamic Postures (Poster Session), Fiber Society Annual Meeting, Ithaca, NY. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Lee, Young-A, Ashdown, S., & Slocum, A.C. Evaluation of Sun overage of Protective Hats <br /> for Golfers; Using Three-Dimensional Body Scan Data. International Textile & Apparel <br /> Association Annual Conference, November 2003.<br /> <br /> Lee, S. and S. Kay Obendorf, Developing Protective Textile Materials as Barriers to Liquid Penetration Using Melt-Electrospinning (poster), Fiber Society, October 17-19, 2005, Newark, NJ. <br /> <br /> Lee, S. and S. Kay Obendorf, Use of Electrospun Nanofiber Web for Protective Textile Materials as Barriers to Liquid Penetration, Fiber Society, Seoul, Korea, May 31-June 2, 2006 (poster) <br /> <br /> Lee, S. and S. Kay Obendorf, (2004), M01-CR02: Improving the Understanding and Acceptance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): A Statistical Model of Pesticide Penetration through Woven Work Clothing Fabrics (poster), National Textile Center Forum, February 16. <br /> <br /> Lee, S. and S. Kay Obendorf, (2004), A Statistical Model of Pesticide Penetration through Woven Work Clothing Fabrics, Fiber Society meeting, May 19, St. Louis. <br /> <br /> Lu, Y. & Rucker, M. Attitudes toward medical textiles: Purchasing agents and doctors.. Presented at the Reusable Medical Textiles Conference, April 26-27, 2006, Indianapolis , IN. <br /> <br /> Lyman-Clarke, L., Ashdown, S. P., Loker, S., Lewis, V. D., & Schoenfelder, K. A Comparison of Visual Analysis Rating Systems. International Textile and Apparel Association Conference, Alexandria , VA , November 1-6, 2005. (poster) <br /> <br /> McKinney , E., Bye, E., LaBat, K, Delong, M., & Kim, D. Linking research and education through the Human Dimensioning Laboratory. International Fiber Societies Conference 2006, Seoul , Korea , May 31-June 2, 2006. <br /> <br /> Nam , J., Branson, D.,Cao, H., Asdown, S., and Schoenfelder, K. (2005, November). 3D body scanning: Methods and data analysis development for quantifying ease. ITAA Annual Conference, Alexandria , VA. <br /> <br /> Ng, R., Ashdown, S.P, & Chan, A., (2007) Intelligent size table generation. Asian Textile Conference (ATC), 9th Asian Textile Conference, Taiwan<br /> <br /> Obendorf, K., Csiszar, E., Maneefuangfoo, D. and Borsa, J. M01-CR02 Improving the <br /> Understanding and Acceptance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Kinetic Transport of Pesticide from Contaminated Fabric Through a Model Skin (poster), National Textile Center Forum, February 10-12, 2003.<br /> <br /> Pan, N., You-Lo Hsieh, Kay Obendorf, Steve Witaker, (2004), Study of Transport Phenomena in Fibrous Substrates-Liquids and solids Interaction (poster), National Textile Center Forum, February 16. <br /> <br /> Peksoz, S ., Branson, D., and Farr, C. (November 2005). QuadGard® Body Armor . At the International Textiles and Apparel Association Annual Conference Juried Exhibition, Alexandria , VA. <br /> <br /> Peksoz, S., Quevedo, V., Branson, D. Gam, HaeJin, and Ricord, D., (2006, November). Meeting an industry request: Developing prototype firefighter bunker gear. ITAA Annual Conference, San Antonio , TX . <br /> <br /> Petrova, A. & Ashdown, S.P. Analysis of Body Scan Data for Best Fit of Pants, International Textile and Apparel Association Conference, Portland, Oregon. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Raheel, M. and Jain, R., (2003).  A Statistical Model for Predicting Effectiveness of Woven and Non-woven Protective Clothing Against Pesticide Penetration, at the AATCC International Conference, Greenville, S. C. September 9-12.<br /> <br /> Ricord, D., Kumphai, P., Branson, D., and Peksoz, S. (2006, November). Breaking ground: Moving from laboratory prototype to apparel production. ITAA Annual Conference, San Antonio, TX.<br /> <br /> Rupert, N.L., Matic, P., Hubler, G.K., Frost, J., Branson, D., Bruno, R.S., Blethen, W.C., Sprague, J.S., Simmons, K., Farr, C., and Peksoz, S. (2005). 22 nd International Symposium of Ballistics, Vancouver , British Columbia.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K., Influence of Fabric Characteristics on UV Transmission. AATCC International Conference & Exhibition, Charlotte, NC, 2002.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. (2004). Influence of enzymatic treatment on ultraviolet properties of cotton fabrics [Abstract]. In: Conference Proceedings, 4 th International Conference on Safety & Protective Fabrics, Industrial Fabrics Association International, 283. <br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K.., & DiVerdi, J.A. (2004). A method for predicting the ultraviolet protection factor of fabrics by calculating percent cover using a digital stereo microscope [Abstract]. Proceedings from the Sixty-first Annual Conference of the International Textile and Apparel Association., International Textile and Apparel Association. <br /> <br /> Song, K. & Stone, J. Consumer Preferences for Design Features of Sun-Safe Shirts. <br /> International Textile & Apparel Association Annual Conference, November 2003.<br /> <br /> Starr, C., Branson, D., Peksoz, S., and Ricord, D. (2006, November). Child's medical support garment prototype. ITAA Annual Conference, San Antonio , TX .<br /> <br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Glove Liner Wear Study (Poster Session), Fiber Society Annual Meeting, Ithaca, NY. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Glove Liner Wear Study, International Textile and Apparel Association Conference, Portland, OR. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Glove Liner Wear Study, Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Forum, Coralville, IA. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Sun, G., Kaiser, S. B., Rucker, M. H., Bhuie, A., Overcash, M., Nicas, M., & Wang, Lu. Health protective textiles: Bridging the disposable/reusable divide. Presented at the Reusable Medical Textiles Conference, April 26-27, 2006, Indianapolis , IN. <br /> <br /> Sung, Heewon, Slocum, A.C. UV Radiation Exposure to Body Sites of Golfers and Effects of Clothing. International Textile & Apparel Association Annual Conference, November 2003.<br /> <br /> Tan, K. and S. Kay Obendorf, C05-CR01: Hybrid Microporous Membranes Intended for Protective Clothing (poster), National Textile Center Forum, February 20, 2006. <br /> <br /> Tan, K. and S. Kay Obendorf, Development of a Novel Membrane Intended for High Performance Protective Clothing, Fiber Society, October 17-19, 2005, Newark , NJ .<br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf, S. K. Development of an Antimicrobial and Breathable Microporous Polyurethane Membrane, the Fiber Society Annual Conference, Tennessee, October 1012, 2006.<br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf, S. K. Development of Antimicrobial Microporous Polyurethane Membranes, 34th ACS Northeast Regional Meeting, Binghamton, NY, October 5-7 2006.<br /> <br /> Tan, Kuitian and Obendorf, S. K. Hybrid Microporous Membranes Intended for Protective Clothing, 15th National Textile Center Conference, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, February 25-27, 2007.<br /> <br /> Zhang, X. & Raheel, M. Predicting Pesticide Penetration in Woven Fabrics Used for Chemical Protective Clothing. 2nd European Conference on Protective Clothing (ECPC) and NOKOBETEF 7, Montreux, Switzerland, May 21-24, 2003, #24.<br /> <br /> Invited Presentations:<br /> Ashdown, S.P. Apparel and the 3D Scanner: The art and science of measuring bodies and clothing. Science Cabaret, sponsored by Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, Ithaca, NY, Oct. 3, 2006.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P. & Moss, J., Collaborative project on sizing and fit using Lectra technology: Nike and Cornell University. Presentation at the symposium Sizing: The Solution. Sponsored by the American Apparel & Footwear Association and the Fashion Institute of Technology, NY, NY, Oct. 11, 2006.<br /> <br /> LaBat, K. Functional clothing design research at the University of Minnesota , Ehwa Woman's University, Seoul , Korea , May, 2006 <br /> <br /> LaBat, K., Bye, E. & DeLong, M. History of fit and sizing research at the University of Minnesota , Seoul National University , Seoul , Korea , May 2006. <br /> <br /> Theses and Dissertation: <br /> Godsey, U.B. Experimental Study of the Frictional Characteristics of Cotton Fabrics, Texas Tech University, December 2004. <br /> <br /> Jain, R.S. Barrier Efficacy of Woven and Non-woven Fabrics Used for Protective Clothing: Predictive Models. M.S. Thesis, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, May, 2003.<br /> <br /> Lee, S. Protective Clothing Materials to Limit Liquid Penetration, PhD, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, May 2005.<br /> <br /> Nam, J Development, Modification and Fit Analysis of Liquid-cooled Vest Prototypes Using 3D Body Scanner. Unpublished M.S. Thesis. Oklahoma State University, 2004.<br /> <br /> Peksoz,S. A Physiological Study of the Effectiveness of Two Prototype Portable Cooling Vests, Unpublished Ph.D. Dissertation, Oklahoma State University, July, 2005.<br /> <br /> Ryan, K. M.D., Aesthetically unique, specially sized clothing for women with osteoporotic posture changes, May 2006 <br /> <br /> Tsui , L.S. (2004), Using Compost as a Filter Medium to Remove Agri-chemicals from Subsurface Drainage System. Ph. D Dissertation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, June.<br /> <br /> Abstracts and Proceedings: <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Choi, M.S., Raymond, D., and Milke, E. Automated Side Seam Placement from 3-D Body Scan Data. International Textile and Apparel Association Conference Proceedings. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Hedge, A, Kline, A.A., Lemley, A.T., Obendorf, S.K. Dokuchayeva, T., and Gaskins, V. Contaminants in Floor Dust, Indoor Air 2002 . The 9th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, International Academy of Indoor Air Science, Monterey, CA (2002), p. 998-1003.<br /> <br /> Lee, Y., Ashdown, S., & Slocum, A.C. (2003). Evaluation of sun coverage of protective hats for golfers using three-dimensional body scan data. [Abstract] International Apparel and Textiles Association Proceedings, Monument, CO. [Online] at: www.itaaonline.org/index2.html. <br /> <br /> Lyman-Clarke, L., Ashdown, S. P., Loker, S., Lewis, V. D., & Schoenfelder, K. A Comparison of Visual Analysis Rating Systems. 2005 International Textile and Apparel Association Proceedings <br /> <br /> Nam , J., Branson, D., Cao, H., Ashdown, S. P., & Schoenfelder, K. 3D Body Scanning: Methods and Data Analysis Development for Quantifying Ease. 2005 International Textile and Apparel Association Proceedings. <br /> <br /> Petrova, A. & Ashdown, S.P. Analysis of Body Scan Data for Best Fit of Pants, International Textile and Apparel Association Conference Proceedings. November, 2004.<br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Glove Liner Wear Study, International Textile and Apparel Association Conference Proceedings. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K., Ramkumar, S.S., Kanukuntla, S., and Dhandapani, R. (2006). UV characteristics of cotton and blended nonwovens [Abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Beltwide Cotton Conferences, National Cotton Council of America . <br /> <br /> Stone, J. F., Coffman, C. W., Imerman, P., Song, K. and Shelley, M. Glove Liner Wear Study, Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Forum Proceedings, Coralville, IA. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Sung, Heewon and Slocum, Ann C. (2003). UV radiation exposure to body sites of golfers and effects of clothing. [Abstract] International Apparel and Textiles Association Proceedings, Monument, CO. [Online] at: www.ITAAonline.org/index2.html. <br /> <br /> Zhang, X. and Raheel, M. Predicting Pesticide Penetration in Woven Fabrics Used for Chemical Protective Clothing . Proceedings of the 2nd European Conference on Protective Clothing (ECPC) and NOKOBETEF 7. Montreux, Switzerland, May 21-24, 2003.<br /> <br /> Internet: <br /> Body Scanning for Apparel, http://www.bodyscan.human.cornell.edu<br /> <br /> Human Dimensioning Laboratory, University of Minnesota, College of Design, http://dha.cdes.umn.edu/outreach_center/Human_Dimensioning_Lab.html <br /> <br /> NC-170 Regional Research website <http://hosts.cce.cornell.edu/txnc170><br /> <br /> Sizing and Fit of Apparel, <http://sizingsystems.human.cornell.edu><br /> <br /> Media coverage: <br /> Gardy, Rebecca, The Shape of Things to Come, American Demographics, July/August 2003.<br /> <br /> Winter, Metta. Engineering Textiles to Protect Workers from Toxic Chemicals, Human Ecology, 31(3): 18-21. May, 2004 <br /> <br /> Encyclopedia Entry <br /> LaBat, K. (2006). Human factors and apparel design, International Encyclopedia of Ergonomics and Human Factors . Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press. <br /> <br /> Patents:<br /> S.S. Ramkumar, Method for Producing Chemical Protective Composite Substrate, US Patent Pending. (Response submitted in Summer 2007).<br /> <br /> S. S. Ramkumar, Development of Leather Based Ballistic Protection Composites Shield, US Patent # 6,862,971 (date of issue: March 8, 2005). <br /> <br /> S. S. Ramkumar, Method of Producing Chemical Protective Composite Substrate, (Patent Pending). <br /> <br /> Objective 2. To examine acceptance and barriers to acceptance of PPE products and practices.<br /> <br /> Publications:<br /> Non-Refereed Publications:<br /> <br /> Breen, N. Carpet Vacuuming & Cleaning, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell University, <br /> November 2002.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. The Agricultural Health Study, Textiles & Apparel News 21 (3): 4. July, 2005.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Agricultural Health Websites, The Cutting Edge 1(1): 4. February, 2007.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Browsing Websites: EPA, Textiles & Apparel News 20 (5): 4. November, 2004.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. CCA-Treatment of Wood Discontinued, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell<br /> University, April 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Enclosed Cabs Reduce Pesticide Exposure, Textiles & Apparel News 22 (3): 4. September, 2006. <br /> <br /> Coffman, C. EPA Approves Glove Liners, Textiles & Apparel News 21 (2): 4. April, 2005.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Insect-repellent Apparel, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell University, September 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Pesticide Safety Educational Materials, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell <br /> University, September 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. The Phthalate Question, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell University, June 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Shelter from the Sun, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell University, June 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Useful Resources on Pesticide Topics, Textiles & Apparel News, Cornell<br /> University, February 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte and Stone, Janis. Glove Liner Study, Textile & Apparel News, Cornell University, 19 (5): 4, November, 2003. <br /> <br /> Shaw, A. (2005). Chapter 4: Steps in selection of protective clothing materials, In: Scott, R.A. (Ed.), Textiles for protection. Cambridge , UK : Woodhead Publishing Limited. <br /> <br /> Stone, J. (2006). Family Pesticide Safety: Wear the Right Gloves, Pm-1662c, Chapter 10 in Laundry Areas, The House Handbook, Midwest Plan Service, MWPS-16. <br /> <br /> Stone, J. Consumer Choices: How to Complain and Get Results, Pm-716, Revised. Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, 2003.<br /> <br /> Stone, J. Consumer Choices: Understanding Apparel and Furnishings Textile, Pm-734 Revised. Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, 2003.<br /> <br /> Stone, J. Consumer Choices: Using Textile Labels, Pm-733 Revised. Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, 2003.<br /> <br /> Stone, J. Is it time to change your hat? Pm-1683 Revised. Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011. July 2003.<br /> <br /> Stone, Janis F. Personal Safety in the Greenhouse. Iowa State University Extension, PAT-43, February 2007. <br /> <br /> Stone, J. and Kadolph. S. Facts about Fabric Flammability, NCR-174, Revised. Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011. July 2003.<br /> <br /> Presentations:<br /> Refereed Presentations:<br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W. Household dust Study: Pesticide Residues Found in Dust Samples Collected from New York Homes, Northeast Pesticide Safety Education and Certification Workshop, September 26, 2006, Mystic, CT. <br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Pesticide Residues and other Allergens in Homes. Poster Session, Association of Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators 2002 Conference, Ithaca, NY, October, 2002.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Reducing the Risk of Operator Contamination form Pesticides. Poster Session, Association of Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators 2002 Conference, Ithaca, NY, October,2002.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Reducing the Risk of Operator Contamination from Pesticides. Poster Session, Galaxy II Conference, Salt Lake City, UT, September 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W. Testing for PPE Resistance for Pesticide Penetration, Northeast Pesticide Safety Education and Certification Workshop, September 25, 2006, Mystic, CT. <br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W. Understanding Tradeoffs between Engineering Controls to Reduce Pesticide Exposure and Use of PPE, Northeast Pesticide Safety Education and Certification Workshop, September 25, 2006, Mystic, CT. <br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W., Stone, Janis F., Slocum, Ann, Landers, Andrew J., Schwab, Charles V., Olsen, Larry G. and Lee, Seungsin. Influence of Engineering Controls on Personal Protective Equipment Use, Fiber Society, Seoul , Korea , May 31-June 2, 2006 (poster) <br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Stone, J. F., Slocum, A., Landers, A., Schwab, C., and Olsen, L. Pesticide Applicators Use and Understanding of Personal Protective Equipment and Engineering Controls (Poster Session), Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Forum, Coralville, IA. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Shaw, Anugrah and Ruchika Abbi, (2004), Online System for Selection of Clothing Materials for Pesticide Users, International Conference on High Performance Textiles and Apparel, Coimbatore, India<br /> <br /> Shaw, A. and Vankalaya G., Protective clothing for pesticide applicators: a comprehensive online system for data management, analysis and dissemination of information, 3rd European Conference on Protective Clothing and NOKOBETEF 8, Gdynia, Poland, May 2006 <br /> <br /> Invited Presentations:<br /> Coffman, Charlotte. (2004) Glove Study and Whats New in PPE for Greenhouse Pesticide Applicators, 2004 Greenhouse Update, Ithaca, NY. February 12.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Interpreting Personal Protective Equipment Label Statements, PPE: Selection, Use, and Maintenance, Can Engineering Controls Replace PPE, and Pesticide Residues in NY <br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W. Personal Protective Equipment for Handling Pesticides, Pesticide Applicator Certification Orientation, May 15, 2007, Ithaca, NY.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Pesticide Residues in the Home, Pesticide Update, Fishkill, N.Y. March 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. PPE Statements on Pesticide Labels, Advanced Horticulture School, Rochester, NY, February, 2005.<br /> <br /> Coffman, C. PPE When Handling Pesticides, Pesticide Applicator Certification Orientation, Ithaca , NY . January 18, 2006. <br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte. (2004), Protecting Your Health When Applying Pesticides, Food Processing Sanitation and Pest Management, Rochester, NY. February 10. <br /> <br /> Coffman, C. Protective Clothing and Gear and Cornell Research Related to PPE, Advanced Horticulture School , Rochester , NY , January 31, 2006. <br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte W. Protective Clothing  What? When? Why?, Pesticide Applicator Training for Amish Farmers, July 18, 2007, Conewago Valley, NY.<br /> <br /> Homes. Greenhouse Workforce Training, Hamden, NY. December 2003.<br /> <br /> Coffman, Charlotte. (2004), Personal Protective Equipment When Handling Pesticides, Pesticide Applicator Certification Orientation, Ithaca, NY, January 14. <br /> <br /> Stone, J., Heer, R., Abbott, B. (2003) How shady is your t-shirt? Table Top Educational <br /> Exhibit.<br /> <br /> Theses and Dissertation: <br /> <br /> Sung, Heewon. Golfers: UV Exposure, Health Beliefs and Practices, and Intention to Adopt UV Protective Clothing. Unpublished Dissertation. Michigan State University, 2003.<br /> <br /> Abstracts and Proceedings: <br /> Coffman, C. Stone, J. F., Slocum, A., Landers, A., Schwab, C., and Olsen, L. Pesticide Applicators Use and Understanding of Personal Protective Equipment and Engineering Controls, Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Forum Proceedings, Coralville, IA. October, 2004.<br /> <br /> Extension Articles: <br /> Internet: <br /> Occupational Safety and Protective Clothing, http://txnc170.human.cornell.edu/ <br /> <br /> Personal Pesticide Protection, http://www.humec.cornell.edu/units/txa/extension/pest/<br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3. To develop performance specification for protective clothing materials.<br /> <br /> In Print Full Length Articles:<br /> <br /> Shaw, Anugrah and Ruchika Abbi, (2004) "Comparison of Gravimetric and Gas Chromatographic Methods for Assessing Performance of Textile Materials against Liquid Pesticides", International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, Vol.10, No.3, 255-261 <br /> <br /> Shaw, A., Eva Cohen, Torsten Hinz, "Laboratory Test Methods to Measure Repellency, Retention and Penetration of Liquid Pesticides through Protective Clothing: Part II Comparison of Three Test Methods", Textile Research Journal, Vol. 74, No.8, 684-688 (2004)<br /> <br /> Refereed Presentations:<br /> <br /> Shaw, A. & Abbi, R. Comparison of Gravimetric & Gas Chromatographic Methods for <br /> Assessing Performance of Textile Materials against liquid Pesticides. 2nd European Conference on Protective Clothing (ECPC), Montreux, Switzerland, May 21-24, 2003.<br /> <br /> Shaw, A. and Pagadala, S. PPE for Pesticide Applicators: Performance of Protective Clothing Materials with Repellent Finishes, International Conference  Research and Standardization in the Field of Development and Use of Personal Protective Equipment, Cracow , Poland , September 2005 <br /> <br /> Shaw, A. and Pagadala P., (2006) Seam Efficiency of Protective Clothing for Pesticide Applicators, 2006 International Conference and Exhibition, American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorist, Atlanta, Nov 2006 <br /> <br /> Standards Developed:<br /> ISO 22608 Protective clothing  Protection against liquid chemicals<br /> <br /> Standards in Review:<br /> ASTM Standard WK 10555, New Protective clothing Performance specification for protective clothing for horticultural and agricultural pesticide workers, (in development) ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, www.astm.org.<br /> <br /> ISO Standard ISO/WD 27065, Protective clothing -- Performance requirements for work and protective clothing for horticultural and agricultural pesticide workers, (in development) ICS: 13.340.10, Stage: 20.20 (2006.06.28), TC/SC: TC94/SC 13<br />

Impact Statements

1. California: Antibacterial medical textiles will provide infection protection in hospitals. Biologically protective Nomex will make first responders safer. Work on liquid transport and thermal conductivities of fibrous materials will make protective clothing safer and more comfortable. Computer modeling of friction blisters can help reduce this problem. Redesign of firefighter and pesticide applicator PPE will make garments more comfortable and more protective. The medical textiles study will increase adoption of improved PPE.
2. Colorado: Dyeing cotton fabrics with natural colorants increased the ultraviolet protective abilities of the fabrics and can be considered as an effective protection against UVR. Enzymatic treatment was shown to increase the ultraviolet protective abilities of knit fabrics. Fiber composition, thickness and weight were shown to be important parameters in determining the UPF values of uncolored nonwoven substrates.
3. Maryland Laboratory studies as well field study data provided by CropLife International contributed to the development of the performance specification draft that has the potential of providing information regarding selection, use, care and maintenance of protective clothing garments for pesticide applicators. ASTM and ISO will enable countries using the respective standards to develop educational materials based on performance specifications.
4. Minnesota Minnesota SunSmart program has reached more than 50,000 people on methods to provide protection from damaging effects of sun exposure. Better sizing and performance of PPE through analysis and understanding of the variety of body shapes and sizes and application of new sizing methods to PPE will improve protection and performance. Use of motion analysis technology will aide in designing PPE that provides best protection in active use situations.
5. Missouri The advanced understanding of the fit and sizing of protective garments will lead to better performance and protection of apparel.
6. New York PPE materials with reduced pore size and antimicrobial action block hazards yet maintain moisture transport increasing comfort. Protocols developed for the 3D body scanner contribute to its use for functional apparel design and testing. Active position PPE fit and sizing research leads to improved designs. Glove liner study supports the USEPA decision allowing use of disposable cotton liners under pesticide chemical-resistant gloves. PPE user study contributes to educational programs, increasing pesticide applicators understanding of PPE selection, use and maintenance.
7. Oklahoma Cooling Vest The cooling vest has the potential for first responders to safely work under adverse environmental conditions while wearing protective clothing. Chemical Detection Smart Textile A smart textile could be used to provide first responders with an early alert of and better protection against toxic chemicals. Body Armor Over 5,000 of the Phase IV units and 900 of the Phase V units are being used in Iraq. Better protection can be provided for soldiers encountering IEDs.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Charlotte Coffman (New York), Susan Ashdown,(New York), Kay Obendorf (New York), Jessica Barker (Iowa), Young-A Lee (Iowa), Semra Peksoz (Oklahoma), Margaret Rucker (California), Gang Sun (California), Lynn Boorady (Missouri), and A nugrah Shaw (Maryland), Shu Hwa Lin (Hawaii).

Brief Summary of Minutes

Charlotte Coffman called the meeting to order at 9:00. Brief introductions were made.

Charlotte Coffman discussed issues with the current listserv that is now outdated. She proposed starting a new listserv instead of trying to update the old one. Susan Ashdown volunteered to host the new listserv at Cornell. No objections were made to Cornell hosting the listserv.

Dr. Joseph Wysocki: USDA updates
Joe gave a brief introduction to himself and his background. He discussed the current and future structure of USDA and CREES. He noted that the Farm Bill recently passed and provides for a name change to CREES, which will be the National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) as of Oct. 1, 2009, with some reorganization in operations. NIFA will become the main research unit for USDA with a politically appointed head. Under the proposed changes in structure, there will not be an obvious fit with Human Sciences under the six areas. There was discussion about extension programs becoming more competitive with greater focus on impacts.

Joe discussed the programs he oversees under Housing and Environment: Healthy Indoor Air for Americas Homes, Healthy Homes, Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN), Energy Programs, Home Buyer Education Counseling. He specifically emphasized EDEN, a national research group accepted as an eXtension affiliate, as noteworthy for NC-170 research interests. There is a call for papers for EDENs annual convention. The website (http://eden.lsu.edu) provides more information about the conference and the people involved in EDEN from each state. Joe noted that through his programs, he has good contacts with the EPA, HUD, and EDEN.

Joe also discussed resources available to assist NC-170 researchers, including an online newsletter: CSREES Administrators Report to the Partnership. He shared a state contact list and provided information regarding the amount of Hatch dollars allotted to each participating university. Institutions can request program reviews from CSREES, and CSREES will provide means for two of the four reviewers. In addition, NPL state liaisons are available for assistance with plans of work and should visit sites once a year.


Official Business:
Officers were elected for the next year. Gang Sun is currently serving as Vice Chair and will thus move up to Chair. Lynn Boorady will take over as Vice Chair and Anugrah Shaw will serve as Secretary. Lynn proposed that next years meeting be held in Fort Worth, Texas where there is an extensive fire fighter training center: Tarrant County College Fire Service Training Center. Susan Ashdown suggested that we try to receive an abbreviated training while we are there. The meeting would be extended an extra day to allow for the training. Possible dates were selected for the meeting, with the understanding that Lynn would check with the Training Center before a final date was set. The dates were as follows: first choice August 5-7; second choice August 3-5, and third choice would be August 12-14.

New Member Introductions:
Semra Peksoz completed her graduate work at Oklahoma State University before joining the faculty there. She worked on sun hat projects and cooling vests using liquid and air. She has also been involved in body armor projects at OSU. Oklahoma has recently acquired a walking, sweating thermal mannequin, thermal imaging camera, and body scanner.

Young-A Lee did her doctoral work at Michigan State University. She worked under Ann Slocum on former NC-170 projects, such as sun protection. She spent 3 years as an assistant professor at Florida State University and recently joined Iowa State University. Her research interests include functional apparel design, design for elderly populations, and virtual product development. Iowa has also recently acquired a body scanner.

Semra will replace Huantian Cao as representative from Oklahoma State University. Young-A will be joining Jessica Barker as members representing Iowa State University.

Website Update:
Anugrah Shaw gave an update on the website (http://www.umes.edu/nc170) development. The content of the website needs to be evaluated for appropriateness of the extension materials available. For example, there is not any information related to fire fighters, even though several members have previously done work in this area. Likewise, there is little information regarding garment design. Individual states should send Anugrah pictures/video clips of current work with an accompanying caption to be posted on the website. Kay suggested other members take on assignments to develop content related to topics drawn from areas of work. Discussion ensued about what topics should be and how to divide current research and past research/publications/history. Possible organization of website content were presented and reviewed. Finally, the following structure was identified, with flexible use of the subtopics:


" Project Information
o Members
o Officers
o Project history
o Project proposal
o Research and publications
o Project archives
" Information by occupation
o Structural - Susan
o Wildfires firefighters - Peg
o First responder/receivers  Jessica, Semra
o Agricultural workers  Anugrah, Charlotte
o Health/medical  Gang, Peg
o Sun protection - Karen
" Information (possible subheadings under each occupation) by research areas
o Materials
o garment design
o garment fit analysis
o evaluation and testing
o user acceptance
o educational materials
" Links
o Cornell body scanner
o The Technical Center
o Fabric Link
o Nsf-muses.ucdavis.edu
" Featured work/Impacts/Methodology Development
o Antimicrobial
o Standards
o Body scan methodology
o Thermal comfort studies


Progress reports (see Appendix) were presented and reviewed for each participating site.

The meeting adjourned to tour UC Davis labs and facilities.



August 5th

Objective #1 Progress
Oklahoma has developed an evaporative assistance device that works and has potential application in this project.

Objective #2 Progress
Focus groups have been conducted in NY, IA, MI, and HI Those with content analysis software will run the transcription files through their software before sending it on for further analysis (if necessary). Young-A Lee noted that she has NVIVO software, which allows for content analysis.

Focus groups of volunteers, females, big-city firefighters should be consulted. These should be completed and transcribed in 6 months.

Lynn Boorady will scan 100 firefighters during fire school sessions in February and June. New York and Oklahoma will also collect body scans, convert the files and send on to Lynn.

Lynn requested that those sites doing focus groups also collect video tapes of donning and doffing at each station and inquire about training fire fighters received on donning and doffing. Lynn will do an example for videotaping methods and send to everyone. All sites need to obtain consent to use an image in a publication release from participants. Susan will send out a sample form for all sites to use. Data files (scans, videos, pictures) should be named using a file naming system to indicate whether permission was obtained.

Maryland will create a database of information for manufacturers and styles of turnout gear to assist in data collection and analysis. Each site will send this information to Anugrah, as focus group meetings are conducted.

Iowa will conduct longitudinal studies of body shape changes for firefighters as they are first recruited through the first year. Iowa will also explore possibilities for glove testing using their Virtual Reality Applications Center and their force feedback equipment.

European gear needs to be evaluated and National Fire Protection Associations (NFPA) regulations of fire fighter gear should be reviewed by the members. Each member will review the website and gain as much information as possible during the next year.
NFPA has a listserv that researchers can join. Kay Obendorf suggested that a NC-170 member should serve on the apparel committee. Angie Shepherd is a good contact for NFPA information.


It was noted that the group should consider environmental impact of turnout gear, particularly in decontamination and cleansing processes. Members may also find Roger Barkers database of fabric properties useful as work on Objective #2 moves forward.

Objective #3 Progress
The group decided to change the proposal. Iowa will not participate in work related to Objective #3. This decision was caused by changes in responsibilities for group members from Iowa.

Gang Sun is developing a database of health/medical textiles information that could be linked on the website.

Maryland will update the website once each year. Members should keep Anugrah updated on selective list of 12 publications related to NC-170 projects to be included on the website. Website updates should be sent to Anugrah. New members should send a digital photo, contact information, and research interests to Anugrah. Other members should evaluate their research interests and website content. Changes should be sent to Anugrah within 60 days of the meeting.

The group then met with Kathlyn Swantco from FabricLink. She reviewed their websites (www.FabricLink.com and www.thetechnicalcenter.com) and services. Kathy also writes for Ecotextiles and has an ongoing column in Textile Insight.

The group discussed funding sources, such as Extramural Fire Research Grants Program, National and State Homeland Security, SBIR, FEMA, NIST, and OSHA. Members noted that there was more funding for improvement in local stations/agencies, which may fund training on donning and doffing of equipment and equipment selection and usage. Similarly, the National Firefighters Association sometimes has calls for proposals. There may also be funding available through Healthy Homes. Relevant conferences were identified as possible venues for work/networking: NIOSH Conference of Protective Clothing, Chemical and Biological Defense Conference

The meeting adjourned until next year.

OBJECTIVES
1. Develop and evaluate new textiles and material systems and processes.
California
Advances in polypropylene fiber technology and thermoplastic nanofiber processes contribute to the improvement of chemically-protective clothing for occupational workers.

Work on photo-induced antibacterial materials has potential for producing biocidal medical textiles.

New York
Antimicrobial fabric will provide protection against infectious diseases to enhance the safety of medical staff, chemical workers, and first receivers.
Oklahoma
An evaporation assistance device can potentially improve the moisture performance of textile systems.

2. Design and evaluate garment systems and processes.
California
Heat flux data will equip firefighters to more accurately estimate protective clothing efficacy.

Hawaii, Iowa, and Missouri
Firefighters perceptions of fabric characteristics and protective gear fit and function will guide future investigations and product development of PPE for firefighters, agricultural workers, and others who need protection from hazardous materials.

Minnesota
Analysis of data from DexaScan and body scanning technologies have design and sizing applications for a variety of human body shapes and sizes.

Use of motion analysis equipment will aide in designing PPE that provides best protection in active use situations.

New York
3D body scans and analyses of sizing systems will contribute to more accurate sizing in product development.

Coverall prototypes and testing of PPE designs will lead to the development of more effective protection for agricultural workers and for structural firefighters.
Oklahoma
Work on the effect of fabric coverage for electronic sensor motes can be applied to the development of smart clothing for firefighters and other workers.

3. Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology.
Maryland
Collaboration with ASTM and ISO on the development of performance standards for PPE will contribute to standard practices and better communication within the industry.

Performance specifications under development will serve as the basis for new educational materials.

New York
Data on garment design preferences and material performance will be added to an existing database at University of Maryland Eastern Shore that faciliatates the work of textile scientists, garment manufacturers, and educators.

Accomplishments

Objective #1 Progress<br /> Oklahoma has developed an evaporative assistance device that works and has potential application in this project.<br /> <br /> Objective #2 Progress<br /> Focus groups have been conducted in NY, IA, MI, and HI Those with content analysis software will run the transcription files through their software before sending it on for further analysis (if necessary). Young-A Lee noted that she has NVIVO software, which allows for content analysis.<br /> <br /> Focus groups of volunteers, females, big-city firefighters should be consulted. These should be completed and transcribed in 6 months.<br /> <br /> Lynn Boorady will scan 100 firefighters during fire school sessions in February and June. New York and Oklahoma will also collect body scans, convert the files and send on to Lynn.<br /> <br /> Lynn requested that those sites doing focus groups also collect video tapes of donning and doffing at each station and inquire about training fire fighters received on donning and doffing. Lynn will do an example for videotaping methods and send to everyone. All sites need to obtain consent to use an image in a publication release from participants. Susan will send out a sample form for all sites to use. Data files (scans, videos, pictures) should be named using a file naming system to indicate whether permission was obtained. <br /> <br /> Maryland will create a database of information for manufacturers and styles of turnout gear to assist in data collection and analysis. Each site will send this information to Anugrah, as focus group meetings are conducted. <br /> <br /> Iowa will conduct longitudinal studies of body shape changes for firefighters as they are first recruited through the first year. Iowa will also explore possibilities for glove testing using their Virtual Reality Applications Center and their force feedback equipment.<br /> <br /> European gear needs to be evaluated and National Fire Protection Associations (NFPA) regulations of fire fighter gear should be reviewed by the members. Each member will review the website and gain as much information as possible during the next year.<br /> NFPA has a listserv that researchers can join. Kay Obendorf suggested that a NC-170 member should serve on the apparel committee. Angie Shepherd is a good contact for NFPA information. <br /> <br /> <br /> It was noted that the group should consider environmental impact of turnout gear, particularly in decontamination and cleansing processes. Members may also find Roger Barkers database of fabric properties useful as work on Objective #2 moves forward.<br /> <br /> Objective #3 Progress<br /> The group decided to change the proposal. Iowa will not participate in work related to Objective #3. This decision was caused by changes in responsibilities for group members from Iowa.<br /> <br /> Gang Sun is developing a database of health/medical textiles information that could be linked on the website.<br /> <br /> Maryland will update the website once each year. Members should keep Anugrah updated on selective list of 12 publications related to NC-170 projects to be included on the website. Website updates should be sent to Anugrah. New members should send a digital photo, contact information, and research interests to Anugrah. Other members should evaluate their research interests and website content. Changes should be sent to Anugrah within 60 days of the meeting. <br /> <br /> The group then met with Kathlyn Swantco from FabricLink. She reviewed their websites (www.FabricLink.com and www.thetechnicalcenter.com) and services. Kathy also writes for Ecotextiles and has an ongoing column in Textile Insight. <br /> <br /> The group discussed funding sources, such as Extramural Fire Research Grants Program, National and State Homeland Security, SBIR, FEMA, NIST, and OSHA. Members noted that there was more funding for improvement in local stations/agencies, which may fund training on donning and doffing of equipment and equipment selection and usage. Similarly, the National Firefighters Association sometimes has calls for proposals. There may also be funding available through Healthy Homes. Relevant conferences were identified as possible venues for work/networking: NIOSH Conference of Protective Clothing, Chemical and Biological Defense Conference<br /> <br />

Publications

Refereed Publications (In Print Full Length Articles)<br /> Alihosseini, F., Ju, K-S., Lango, J., Hammock, B.D. and Sun, G. (2008). Sun antibacterial colorants  characterization of prodiginines and their applications on textile materials, Biotechnology Progress, 24 (3), 742-747. <br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P. and Loker, S. (2007). Mass customized target market sizing: extending the sizing paradigm for improved apparel fit, Proceedings of the 2007 World Congress on Mass Customization and Personalization, October 7-9, 2007, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.<br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Choi, M. S., and Milke, E. (2008). Automated side-seam placement from 3D body scan data. International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, 20(4), 199-213.<br /> <br /> Badrossamay, M.R. and Sun, G. (2008). Preparation of rechargeable biocidal polypropylene by reactive extrusion with diallyl-amino triazine, European Polymer Journal, 44, 733-742.<br /> <br /> Barker, J. and Black, C. (2007). Comfort perceptions of ballistic vest wearers. Proceedings of the International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Meeting, Los Angeles, CA, November, 2007.<br /> <br /> Boorady, L.M. and Hawley, J.M. (2008). The Wonders of Technology: Teaching Becomes Virtual, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, Special Focus Issue on the Future, 26(2). <br /> <br /> Bye, E., LaBat, K., McKinney, E., and Kim, D.E. (2008). Optimized pattern grading, International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, 20(2), 79-92.<br /> <br /> Gaan, S. and Sun, G. (2008). Effect of nitrogen additives on flame retardant action of tributyl phosphate: Phosphorus  nitrogen synergism, Polymer Degradation and Stability 93 (1), 99-108.<br /> <br /> Gaan, S. and Sun, G. (2007). Effect of phosphorus and nitrogen on flame retardant cellulose: A study of phosphorus compounds, Journal of Analytical & Applied Pyrolysis 78, 371-377.<br /> <br /> Gaan, S. and Sun, G. (2007). Effect of phosphorus flame retardants on thermo-oxidative decomposition of cotton, Polymer Degradation and Stability, 92, 968-974.<br /> <br /> Gao, J., Pan, N. and Yu, W. (2008). Fractal dimension of down fibre assemblies, International Symposium on Nonlinear Dynamics, Journal of Physics: Conference Series 96, doi: 10.1088/1742-6596/96/1/012162.<br /> <br /> Hong, K. H. and Sun, G. (2008). Poly (styrene-co-vinylbenzophenone) as photoactive antimicrobial and self-decontaminating materials, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 109 (5), 3173-3179.<br /> <br /> Hong, K. H. and Sun, G. (2008). Antimicrobial and chemical detoxifying functions of cotton fabrics containing different benzophenone derivatives, Carbohydrate Polymers, 71, 598-605.<br /> <br /> Hong, K. H. and Sun, G. (2007). Preparation and properties of benzophenone chromophoric group branched polymer for self-decontamination, Polymer Engineering and Science, 47 (11), 1750-1755.<br /> <br /> Hong, K. H. and Sun, G. (2007). Photocatalytic functional cotton fabrics containing benzophenone chromophoric groups, Journal of Applied Polymer Science 106 (4), 2661-2667.<br /> <br /> Jung, J. H., Pan, N. and Kang, T. J. (2008). Generalized capstan problem: Bending rigidity, nonlinear friction and extensibility effect, Tribology International 41, 524=534.<br /> <br /> Lee, S. and Obendorf, S. K. (2007). Use of electrospun nanofiber web for protective textile materials as barriers to liquid penetration, Textile Research Journal, 77, 696-702.<br /> <br /> Lin, S. (2008). An examination of organic cotton in the Hawaii market: Visitors vs. residents, Taiwan Textile Research Journal 18 (2), 45-54.<br /> <br /> Lin, S. (2008). Attitudes of tourists to purchasing organic cotton in Hawaii, Journal of Organic Systems, 2 (2), 14-26.<br /> <br /> Liu, J. and Sun, G. (2008). The synthesis of novel cationic anthraquinone dyes with high potent antimicrobial activity, Dyes and Pigments, 77 (2), 380-386.<br /> <br /> Liu, S. and Sun, G. (2008). Biocidal acyclic halamine polymers: Conversion of acrylamide grafted cotton to acyclic halamine, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 108, 3480-3486.<br /> <br /> Liu, S. and Sun, G. (2008). Radical graft functional modification of cellulose with allyl monomers: Chemistry and structure characterization, Carbohydrate Polymers, 71, 614-625.<br /> <br /> Mason, A. M., De Klerk, and Ashdown, S. P., (2008). Sizing and fit research at grassroots level: A methodology for the identification of unique body shapes in African developing countries, Journal of Family Ecology and Consumer Sciences, 36, 9-21.<br /> <br /> Na, H. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). Comparison of 3-D body scan data to quantify upper body postural variation in older and younger women, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 26 (4), 292-307.<br /> <br /> Petrova, A. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). 3-D body scan data analysis: Body size and shape dependence of ease values for pants fit., Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 26(3), 227-252.<br /> <br /> Sandstrom, A. Morshed, M. and Sun, G. (2007). Biocidal aramide fabrics for emergency responders: Formation and properties of aramide halamines, Textile Research Journal, 77 (8), 591-596.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Shaw, A. (2008). Field evaluation of protective clothing worn by pesticide applicators in hot climates, International Pest Control, 50(3), 152-155.<br /> <br /> Tan, K. and Obendorf, S.K. (2007). Fabrication and evaluation of electrospun nanofibrous antimicrobial nylon 6 membranes, Journal of Membrane Science, 305, 287-298.<br /> <br /> Wang, D. and Sun, G. (2007). Formation and morphology of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB)/polyolefin and CAD/polyester in-situ microfibrillar and lamellar hybrid blends, European Polymer Journal, 43, 3587-3596.<br /> <br /> Wang, D., Sun, G. and Chiou Bor-Sen (2007). A high throughput, controllable and environmentally benign fabrication process of thermoplastic nanofibers, Macromolecular Material Engineering, 292 (4), 407-414.<br /> <br /> Wang, D., Sun, G., Chiou, Bor-Sen, and Hinestroza, J. (2007). Controllable fabrication and properties of polypropylene nanofibers, Polymer Engineering and Science, 47 (11), 1865-1872.<br /> <br /> Wu, J, Pan, N. and Williams, K.R. (2007). Mechanical, biomechanical and psychophysical study of carpet performance, Textile Research Journal, 77, 172-178.<br /> <br /> Xing, M. Q., Zhong, W., Pan, N. and Maibach, H (2007). Interfacial kinetics effects on transdermal drug delivery: A computer modeling, Skin Research and Technology, doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2007.002.00273.x<br /> <br /> Yang, H., Zhu, S., Li, K. and Pan, N. (2008). Modeling fabrics optical behaviors, Materials Science Forum, 575-578, 1266-1271.<br /> <br /> Yuhan, C., Quilin, W., Ding, P. and Pan, N. (2008). Rayon-based activated carbon fibers treated with both alkali metal salt and lewis acid, microporous and mesoporous materials, 109, 138-146.<br /> <br /> Zhao, T. and Sun, G. (2008). An antimicrobial cationic reactive dye: Synthesis and applications on cellulosic fibers, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 108, 1917-1923.<br /> <br /> Zhao, T. and Sun, G. (2008). Hydrophobicity and antimicrobial activities of quaternary pyridinium salts, Journal of Applied Microbiology, 104 (3), 824-830.<br /> <br /> Zhao, T. and Sun, G. (2007). Antimicrobial finishing of cellulose with incorporation of aminopyridinium salts to reactive and direct dyed fabrics, Journal of Applied Polymer Science 106 (4), 2634-2639.<br /> <br /> Zhong, W. and Pan, N. (2007). Aerosol filtration by fibrous filters: A statistical mechanics approach, Textile Research Journal, 77, 284-289.<br /> <br /> <br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. Develop and evaluate new textiles and material systems and processes.
2. 2. Design and evaluate garment systems and processes.
3. 3. Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

Objective 1: Develop and evaluate new textiles and materials systems and processes <br /> <br /> " New York prepared TiO2/PAN fibers in less than 1 mm and used the photocatalytic properties of fibers containing TiO2 nanoparticles as a self decontaminating material in degradation of the pesticide aldicarb as the model toxin.<br /> <br /> " Biocidal halamine polypropylene fibers were developed at UCD by using a reactive extrusion process in a twin-extruder. The fibers demonstrated powerful and rechargeable antibacterial functions against bacteria, viruses, and most pathogens. <br /> <br /> " UCD has started a study on using photo-sensitizers as biocidal agents in textiles and polymers. Results have been published in several articles. This is a promising technology that can be applied in medical protective clothing and devices.<br /> <br /> " The results of the research at UCD have drawn additional funding from Defense Threat Reduction Agency on using these nanofibers in chemical/biological protective clothing.<br /> <br /> " Initiated research to develop thermostatic smart textile containing phase change materials (PCMs) using electrospinning as a new method for creating PCMs nanofibers.<br /> <br /> Objective 2. Design and evaluate garment systems and processes<br /> <br /> " Methodology and tools<br /> <br /> MN completed a study of the effects of scan attire on accuracy and reliability of anthropometric data. A second motion capture system dedicated to motion analysis of functional apparel was acquired with grant money for the Minnesota Human Dimensioning Lab. The HDL now has both a reflective marker system and a direct signal system for motion analysis.<br /> <br /> " Product Development: Coverall design<br /> <br /> A new coverall design for agricultural workers was developed collaboratively with input from IA, MN, MO, CA, and NY. An invention disclosure for this design (listing co-inventors from MN and NY) has been filed with the Cornell Center for Technology Enterprise and Commercialization. In collaboration with MO, a sizing system has been developed for the coverall based on data from the SizeUSA anthropometric survey. Sourcing is underway for production of a set of coveralls to be used in testing. <br /> <br /> " Methodology development: Use of scan data for fit assessment<br /> <br /> A comparative study of the fit of athletic shorts and t-shirts was conducted in NY on a participant group of 72 women using the 3D scanner in collaboration with Nike Apparel. Analysis of results showed some agreement between expert and participant judgment of fit, especially in the smaller and larger sizes. <br /> <br /> " User needs analysis I: Scan study of FF turnout gear design in active positions<br /> <br /> A scan study is underway in NY to test range of movement and fit issues in current firefighter's gear in collaboration with, and funded by, Globe Manufacturing. Scan tests were conducted with three firefighters in five sets of turnout gear, for 3 active poses and 2 range of movement poses. Analysis of the stress folds showed variations among the different uniform models, both in scale and location. MO received an internal grant to conduct focus groups with firefighters and body scan 103 fire fighters. Anthropometric data from the scans was compared to SizeUSA data and is currently being analyzed. MO attended two sessions of a structural fire training course and took over 200 photographs of fire fighters in working positions. A content analysis will be performed. IA collected 3D body scans of 10 firefighters with their gear in three positions to analyze pant fit. Through collaborations with Iowa State University's Kinesiology Department, internal funding was obtained to conduct body scans and physiological testing. Three-dimensional body scans were collected of firefighters with their gear on and without their gear, in form-fitting clothing. A total of 60 scans were obtained of ten firefighters in three positions (standing, squatting, and low squatting) to analyze pant fit. Analysis of body scan data is in progress.<br /> <br /> " User needs analysis II: Focus group study of firefighters<br /> <br /> In collaboration with Missouri, New York, and Hawaii, a total of nine focus groups were conducted in five different states, utilizing 55 career and volunteer firefighters from 11 different fire departments, both male and female. Information was collected regarding the fit, function, and design of current firefighter turnout gear. Focus group data was analyzed and the following common issues were identified: weight and breathability of coats and pants, poor fit of pants resulting in restricted mobility (e.g. crotch and waist), and pocket size and location. Firefighters also commented that their gloves and boots negatively impact their ability to accomplish certain tasks and movements.<br /> <br /> " User needs analysis III: Physiological impact testing of firefighter gear<br /> <br /> Physiological impact testing was also conducted in IA in an environmental chamber using ten firefighters in their gear to determine thermoregulatory and metabolic responses to the physical stress of wearing turnout gear. Data analysis is in progress. Baseline measures were also taken of the firefighters when wearing exercise shorts and T-shirts for comparison.<br /> <br /> " OSU conducted evaluation of cooling unit developed by NanoPore indicated significant differences for multiple measures for subjects wearing level A and B suits with cooling providing an improvement. However, the size and bulk of the cooler units are not suitable in practical applications. A human subject testing, evaluating 3 types of microclimate cooling systems under chemical protective level A and B suits was conducted with chamber temperature at 90°±1° F and relative humidity 25%±5%. All 5 subjects were able to function longer with cooling worn under Level A suits (ave of 9.4 min longer); there were significant differences in sweat rate and skin temperatures at chest and back. Lower heart rate and core temperatures were observed with cooling. Significant differences for skin temperature at both locations, core temperature and sweat rate were found for subjects wearing Level B suits with cooling providing improvement. Reduction in clarity of vision due to fogging of the face shield improved slightly with cooling, however, remained problematic for those wearing Level A suits. Six base line tests (no-cooling), 4 with subjects in Level A and 2 with subjects in Level B, had to be terminated due to elevated heart rate, core temperature or fatigue.<br /> <br /> " An extensive thermal study was conducted at OSU using a sweating thermal manikin, Walter, to study the relationship between microclimate temperature/humidity and body temperature/sweat rate. Temperature and humidity sensors were placed at 2 locations on the interior of a fire fighter coat, and an outside pocket. Environmental conditions were 20°C and 50% RH. Experiments were set up to incrementally increase Walters core temperature and collect microclimate data transmitted by wireless sensors. Microclimate temperature at chest and at back were found to be good predictors of core temperature with regression equations yielding R2=0.986 and R2=0.995, for the smart clothing research. Data analyses on the relationship between microclimate humidity and sweat rate are still being conducted. However, lessons learned from extensive manikin testing indicated human subject testing should provide more realistic regression. A human subject pilot study was conducted to collect microclimate data from wireless sensors and core temperature data from the internal capsule to investigate the correlation between the two.<br /> <br /> " Redesigned the smart glove; moved the sensor to the base of the pinky finger thus maintaining improved contact, strengthened sensor alignment by embedding the tip of the sensor in a semi rigid ring; separated the sensor mote and the power pack and designed 2 receptacles on the glove cuff to carry each part which streamlined the cuff and permitted greater flexibility.<br /> <br /> " Microencapsulated phase change material (HI &NY): In collaboration with the Department of Textile Engineering at Chinese Culture University, Taiwan, to explore new cool textiles and materials. <br /> <br /> " An Exploration of Dye Adsorption of Chitosan (HI): In collaboration with Department of Textile Engineering at Chinese Culture University (CCU), Taiwan, to explore new textiles for medical materials.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology: <br /> <br /> "Create a public online system for protective clothing communities<br /> <br /> All states contribute to the NC-170 website that is maintained by MD. The goals are 1) to inform users about the advantages/disadvantages of the materials, construction, and design features of hats, gloves, and body coverings found in standard turnout gear and 2) to encourage users to explore non-traditional designs that provide improved safety. NY obtained funding for a summer intern to develop turnout gear illustrations; information from ongoing NC-170 firefighter projects will be included. Once completed, the NY website that features a drag-and-drop "dress the firefighter" activity will be linked to the NC-170 website.<br /> <br /> "Facilitate research across university, government, and industry<br /> <br /> The establishment of performance specifications will facilitate industry collaborations and serve as the basis for the development of educational materials. Performance specification was approved by the ASTM F23 Committee and is now as an ASTM International Standard. The ISO document is currently balloted as a DIS draft. MD represents the NC-170 in this process.<br /> <br /> " Address user needs, collect user input, and provide user training and education <br /> <br /> PPE education for workers continues through certification trainings, exhibits, seminars, workshops, and telephone responses. MN collaborated with a plant pathologist to develop a new presentation on PPE for pesticide applicators. MD reviewed the materials for content. NY initiated a study group for orchard and vineyard staff that needs non-bulky warm clothing. Information on sun protective technologies was updated and disseminated to outdoor workers through the MN SunSmart program.<br /> <br /> PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR: <br /> <br /> "Lab testing of coveralls will be done at NY and OK, possibly also MN; field tests will be conducted at MN, IA,CA, MO, and NY<br /> <br /> "MO will MO will conduct field test chemical protection suit in conjunction with NY, MN, IA, CA, conduct visual analysis of fire fighter photograph set, analyze firefighter body scan anthropometric data, investigate changes in size due to varying body positions, Work with extension colleagues in the University of Missouri Extension Fire and Rescue Training Institute to create instructional brochure on wearing bunker gear, and work with industry to obtain funding to body scan firefighters at the annual Fire Department Instructors Conference.<br /> <br /> "NY will continue analysis of firefighter scans for range of movement and fit analysis, will conduct interviews with firefighters, and scan additional subjects in uniforms.<br /> <br /> "IA will continue analysis of firefighter scans for pants fit and function and physiological testing, and will complete a wearer acceptability questionnaire study and analysis utilizing firefighters enrolled in the 2010 Winter Fire School in Ames, IA.<br /> <br /> "IA, NY, OK, CA, MO, MN, and HI will experiment with online tools for interactive collaboration in preparation for design meetings to be held at a distance.<br /> <br /> "OK will test and improve the design of both smart glove and smart coat, integrate additional sensors to detect movement and location of the wearer, conduct a biomedical and sizing evaluation of the redesigned prototype smart glove (with additional Federal funding received), and continue with developing a method of creating thermostatic smart textile containing phase change materials (PCMs).<br />

Publications

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS:<br /> <br /> 2008 Farzaneh Alihosseini and Gang Sun, Recent Progresses in Antibacterial Dyes, Household and Personal Care Today, 2008, No. 4, 17-21.<br /> <br /> 2009 Mohammad Reza Badrossamay and Gang Sun, Durable and Rechargeable Biocidal Polypropylene Polymers and Fibers Prepared by Using Reactive Extrusion, Journal of Biomedical Materials Research: Part B - Applied Biomaterials V. 89B: 93101.<br /> <br /> 2009 Kyung Hwa Hong and Gang Sun, Photoinduced Antimicrobial polymer blends with benzophenone as a functional additive, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Volume 112, Issue 4, Date: 15 May 2009, Pages: 2019-2026.<br /> <br /> 2009 Mohammad Reza Badrossamay and Gang Sun, Graft Polymerization of N-tert-Butyl Acrylamide onto Polypropylene during Melt Extrusion and Biocidal Properties of Its Products, Polymer Engineering and Science. Volume 49, Issue 2, Date: February 2009, Pages: 359-368.<br /> <br /> 2009 Junshu Liu and Gang Sun, The Synthesis of Novel Cationic Anthraquinone Dyes with High Potent Antimicrobial Activity, Dyes and Pigments. V81, 231-234.<br /> <br /> 2009 Song Liu and Gang Sun, New N-Halamine Polymeric Biocides: N-Chlorination of Acyclic Amide Grafted Cellulose, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research. V 48, No. 2, 613-618.<br /> <br /> 2009 Sabyassachi Gaan and Gang Sun, Effect of Nitrogen Additives on Thermal Decomposition of Cotton, Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis, V 84, P108-115.<br /> <br /> 2009 Mohammad Reza Badrossamay and Gang Sun, Enhancing Hygiene/Antimicrobial Properties of Polyolefins, Chapter 8, Polyolefin Fibres, Ed. Samuel C. O. Ugbolue, Woodhead Publishing Ltd. Cambridge England. Pages 262-285.<br /> <br /> 2009 Mohammad Reza Badrossamay and Gang Sun, A Study on Melt Grafting of N-halamine Moieties onto Polyethylene and their Antibacterial Activities. Macromolecules, V42(6) 1948-1954.<br /> <br /> 2009 Margaret Rucker and Ning Pan, Evaluation of the Air Permeability, Total Heat Loss, and Radiant Protective Performance of Five Protective Clothing Systems. Report submitted to CAL FIRE<br /> <br /> 2008 Moran Wang, Qinjun Kang, Ning Pan, Thermal conductivity enhancement of carbon fiber composites, Applied Thermal Engineering, 29, 418-421.<br /> <br /> 2008 M. Wang, N. Pan. Predictions of Effective Physical Properties of Complex Multiphase Materials. Material Science and Engineering-R: Report (Invited Review), 63: 130.<br /> <br /> 2009 Lei Zuo, Sukang Zhu and Ning Pan, Determination of sample size for step-wise transient thermal tests, Polymer Testing, 28, 307-314.<br /> <br /> 2009 Weiping Du, Huifang Chen, Haifeng Xu, Ding Pan and Ning Pan, Viscoelastic Behavior of Polyacrylonitrile/Dimethyl Sulfoxide Concentrated Solution with Water, Journal of Polymer Science, B: Polymer Physics, 47, 14371442.<br /> <br /> 2009 Lianjiang Tan, Ding Pan, Ning Pan, Investigation into the gelation and crystallization of polyacrylonitrile, European Polymer Journal, 45, 1617-1624.<br /> <br /> 2009 Boorady, L.M., Rucker, M., Haise, C. and Ashdown, S.P., (2009) Protective Clothing for Pesticide Applicators: A Multimethod Needs Assessment, JTATM, 6(2), http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu/index.php/JTATM/article/viewFile/646/455.<br /> <br /> 2009 Lin, S. (2009). Exploratory evaluation of potential and current consumers of organic cotton in Hawaii. Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, 21(4), 489-506.<br /> <br /> 2009 Coffman, C.W., Stone, J.F., Slocum, A., Landers, A.J., Schwab, C.V., Olsen, L, and Lee, S., Use of engineering controls and personal protective equipment by certified pesticide applicators, Journal of Agricultural Safety and Health 15(4), 311-326.<br /> <br /> 2008 Na, H. and Ashdown, S.P., Comparison of 3-D body scan data to quantify upper body postural variation in older and younger women, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 26(4) pp. 292 - 307.<br /> <br /> 2009 Dixit, V., Tewari, J.C., and Obendorf, S.K., Identification of degraded products of aldicarb due the catalytic behavior of titanium dioxide/polyacrylnitrile nanofiber, J. Chromatogr. A, doi: 10.1016/jchroma.2009.07.031.<br /> <br /> 2009 Barker, J. & Black, C. Ballistic vests for police officers: Using clothing comfort theory to analyze personal protective clothing. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education.<br /> <br /> PEER REVIEWED PRESENTATIONS:<br /> <br /> 2008 Peksoz, S. and Branson, D. (November 2008). A water cooled cooling garment: Pattern and tubing development . ITAA Annual Conference, Schaumburg, Illinois.<br /> <br /> 2008 An, S. K., Kamenidis, P., Starr, C., Cao, H. Peksoz S. and Branson, D. (November 2008). Evaluation of Evaporative Resistance of Multi-layer Kevlar Ballistic Fabrics: An implication to Protective Apparel Design. ITAA Annual Conference, Schaumburg, Illinois.<br /> <br /> 2008 An, S. K., Kamenidis, P., Cao, H. Peksoz S. Branson, D. and Starr, C. (November 2008). Evaluation of Evaporative Resistance of Multi-layer Ballistic Fabrics. ITAA Annual Conference, Schaumburg, Illinois.<br /> <br /> 2009 Margaret Rucker, Carrie Haise, and Joanne Brasch. Medical Textiles: Views of the Users, European Conference on Protective Clothing, Arnhem, The Netherlands, June 10-12.<br /> <br /> 2009 Lynn M. Boorady, Margaret H. Rucker, Carrie L. Haise and Susan P. Ashdown, Chemical Protective Coveralls for Pesticide Applicators, European Conference on Protective Clothing, Arnhem, The Netherlands, June 10-12.<br /> <br /> 2009 Shaw, A., K. Machera, S. Saxena, P. Schiffelbein. Validation of Pipette Methods for Quantifying Penetration of Liquid Pesticide Formulations through Textile Materials, Chemical Protective Coveralls for Pesticide Applicators, 4th European Conference on Protective Clothing, Arnhem, The Netherlands, June 10-12. (poster presentation.<br /> <br /> 2009 Chang, J. C., Lin, S. H., Lin, S. M., Hsieh, W.C., & Chang, C.P. Dye adsorptive properties of various shapes of chitosan, The 11th International Conference on Chitin and Chitosan & The 8th Asia-Pacific Chitin and Chitosan Symposium, Chemical aspects No.4, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, September, 2009.<br /> <br /> INVITED PRESENTATIONS:<br /> <br /> 2009 Ashdown, S.P., Introduction to Issues in Apparel Sizing. Lecture to the Vietnam Textile Institute, May.<br /> <br /> 2009 Ashdown, S.P., Apparel Fit; Custom Fit; 3D Body Scanning. Lecture to the Vietnam Textile Institute, May.<br /> <br /> 2009 Ashdown, S.P. 3D Body Scanning: Bringing New Dimensions to Research. Lecture given at the Tianjin Polytecnic University School of Textile and the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, May.<br /> <br /> 2009 Coffman, C.W. Cold Weather Apparel, Field Research Unit Seminar, Geneva, NY. February.<br /> <br /> 2009 Coffman, C.W. Personal Protective Equipment for Handling Pesticides, Pesticide Applicator Certification Orientation, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY. January.<br /> <br /> 2009 Lee, Y. A. Current U.S. research trends: Application of emerging technologies into research on new product development. Invited lecture to the Department of Clothing and Textiles, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea, May 28. <br /> <br /> INTERNET SITES:<br /> <br /> Personal Pesticide Protection http://www.human.cornell.edu/che/fsad/outreach/programs/personal-pesticide-protection/index.cfm/ <br /> <br /> Website for Personal Protective Technologies for current and Emerging Occupational Hazards <br /> http://www.umes.edu/nc170<br /> <br /> Body Scanning for Apparel <br /> http://www.bodyscan.human.cornell.edu<br /> <br /> Sizing and Fit of Apparel<br /> http://sizingsystems.human.cornell.edu<br />

Impact Statements

1. Research on thermostatic smart textile containing phase change materials (PCMs) using electrospinning as a new method for creating PCMs nanofibers conducted at OK as a proof of concept project will potentially yield light weight cooling garments in multiple application.
2. Wireless sensors monitoring vital signs of persons in potential danger can be invaluable in reducing/preventing hazards and even saving lives. Improvements and ultimate application of this technology will impact manufacturers of protective clothing as technology becomes readily available and affordable.
3. The work on new self-decontaminating materials contributes to the growing field of chemically engineered materials aimed at enhancing the safety of medical staff, chemical workers, and first receivers.
4. Product development and testing of the design of PPE contributes to the development of more effective protection for agricultural workers and of structural firefighters.
5. Understanding the PPE user needs specific to agricultural workers and firefighters is critical to the development of relevant educational materials.
6. Overall interest in firefigher research is high. Boorady has been asked to teach a session at the Missouri Firefighter Training Institute Winter Fire School on the safety issues concerning the fit of bunker gear. Reports of ISU research were produced by two television channels, one radio channel, two newspapers, and one website.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Participants:
Charlotte Coffman (Cornell University), Susan Ashdown (Cornell University), Juyeon Park (Colorado State University), Jessica Barker (Iowa State University), Young-A Lee (Iowa State University), Lynn Boorady (University of Missouri - Columbia), Anugrah Shaw (University of Maryland - Eastern Shore), Shu-Hwa Lin (University of Hawaii - Manoa), Lucy Dunne (University of Minnesota), and Marilyn DeLong (Administrative Advisor).

Brief Summary of Minutes

See attached

Accomplishments

Objective 1: Develop and evaluate new textiles and materials systems and processes<br /> <br /> <br /> " New York prepared TiO2/PAN fibers in less than 1 mm and used the photocatalytic properties of fibers containing TiO2 nanoparticles as a self decontaminating material in degradation of the pesticide aldicarb as the model toxin. Self-decontaminating systems were developed using polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/metal oxide composite fibers. HPLC, SEM and TEM were used to investigate the decontamination activities and other characteristics of the PAN/metal oxide nanowebs. Self-decontaminating properties of the fibers containing nanoparticles of MgO and TiO2 were confirmed. Funding support for this project was obtained from the National Textile Center and the College of Human Ecology at Cornell.<br /> <br /> <br /> " Good progress was made with respect to biocidal halamine polypropylene fibers in both pilot production and lab scale experiments of new structures at UCD. UCD also developed one new monomer that can bring very powerful halamine biocidal functions to polypropylene. Both polypropylene and polyester can be utilized in chemical and biological protective clothing materials. Using a combination of the two processes we successfully produced nano/submicro-sized fibers containing biocidal halamine structures. <br /> <br /> <br /> " UCD conducted a study on using certain dyes as photo-induced functional agents on textiles and polymers. The results proved that some natural dyes could provide photo-active functions and some anthraquinone acids dyes could generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) under UVA light. These ROSs could serve antimicrobial and self-detoxification functions. This is a promising green technology that can be applied in protective clothing and devices.<br /> <br /> <br /> " The research on halamine nanofibers at UCD has drawn funding from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency of DOD regarding the use of these nanofibers in chemical/biological protective clothing. <br /> <br /> <br /> " HI continued research to explore new textiles and materials collaborating with the Department of Textile Engineering at the Chinese Culture University in Taiwan. Phase changing material (PCM) and microencapsulated phase change material (MPCM) were being researched, tested and analyzed to determine possible use in turnout gear and other personal protective clothing. <br /> <br /> <br /> " OK continued to produce nanofibers with selected individual and combined PCMs using a base fabric, a polyester fabric, conductive yarn, and the selected PCMs. Additional samples were created and were subjected to characterization through SEM, TEM, and air permeability.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2: Design and evaluate garment systems and processes<br /> <br /> <br /> " MN completed an experimental analysis of the impact of garment ease on the performance of an integrated bend sensor for knee goniometry and the development of a method and protocol for measuring movement of garments over a moving body is in process. Test garments in 5 weights of denim in 5 custom-graded sizes each have been developed and constructed. Movement data has been captured from these garments and is currently being processed to analyze the impact of textile weight and stiffness on garment movement. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MN initiated a collaboration with Virginia Tech to develop a virtual design environment to assist designers in investigating the impact of design choices on garment-integrated sensor performance. Test application for this research is a collaboration with Globe Firesuits on the development of bio-sensing firefighter turnout gear. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MD worked with Safe Use Initiative (SUI) to evaluate the performance of garments with repellent finish used in Portugal, Greece and Poland. The questionnaire developed jointly with SUI and the drop tests were used for the study. The garments were analyzed and used as the basis for designing a more extensive study to be conducted next year. <br /> <br /> <br /> " NY and MD together conducted a wear study to determine the performance of garments with a repellent fabric. The findings were used to develop a simple test to serve as end of life indicator for garments with repellent finish. <br /> <br /> <br /> " Investigation of the usefulness of virtual fit programs for collection of fit data for development of new sizing systems for PPE is underway at NY. Methods have been developed for creation of a virtual model from a 3D scan that can be used in conjunction with the Optitex program for 3D design. Testing will be conducted by creating virtual models of garments using these materials, and then actual garments, and comparing the results. <br /> <br /> <br /> " Coverall design: NY continues to work on testing the new coverall design that was developed with the goal of maximizing movement without sacrificing comfort or protection, and minimizing the overall silhouette to reduce the incidence of tears from catching on equipment or orchard tree branches. Sizes were developed based on SizeUSA data in collaboration with MO, and patterns were graded. Sets of coveralls of the new design have been manufactured in 6 sizes ranging from Small to XXX Large in two different fabrics, Kleenguard and ProShield (a DuPont product). Two sets of commercial coveralls are being acquired for comparative testing, one the standard design used most commonly, and an innovative commercial design that also helps accommodate movement. Protocols have been developed for fit testing (using the 3D body scanner) and for field-testing. External support for this project was provided from KleenGuard, a manufacturer of disposable fabrics and of protective coveralls.<br /> <br /> <br /> " Hood design for firefighters: An innovative design for a new type of firefighter hood that incorporates impact protection, thereby replacing the hood and helmet combination was developed by a student design team at NY. This design incorporates layers of the Dow Corning impact material Active Protection System, TP3-001 and TP3-002, and S5-004. <br /> <br /> <br /> " Wildland firefighter project: UCD working in collaboration with CAL FIRE focused on evaluating a single-layer clothing system and a double-layer clothing system under four different heat flux conditions. The two-layer system was more protective at all four heat levels but the difference decreased as the heat flux increased.<br /> <br /> <br /> " Medical textiles project: UCD did additional analyses of data from nationwide surveys of operating room nurses and doctors using the critical incident technique. The study indicated that while strike through was a major problem for both surgical gowns and drapes, a number of other factors such as fit and durability should also be considered by product developers and purchasing agents. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> User needs analysis I: Scan study of FF turnout gear design in active positions<br /> <br /> <br /> " Data from a study of firefighter turnout gear at NY have been analyzed. Problems in the fit and function of the gear were investigated as case studies, with three active firefighters. Results highlight firefighter concerns about the weight of the gear and overheating when wearing it for most calls (for which they are over-protected), issues with attachment of (and movement issues related to) equipment in pockets and hung off the PPE, and compression burns. Videotapes for the 3 firefighters donning 6 different uniform styles were analyzed: donning issues were suit specific and included problems with visibility of fasteners such as zippers, issues with overlaps that were not wide enough to grasp and fasten easily, and overall close fit. Fit analysis of the 3D scan data in the different suit styles were firefighter specific, and were not consistent for individual styles. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MO completed an anthropometric body scan study of 100 fire fighters. Anthropometric data from the scans was compared to SizeUSA data. The study showed that the participant group was taller and heavier than the average male compared to the entire SizeUSA sample. <br /> <br /> <br /> " IA completed an analysis of 3D body scan data of 10 firefighters with their gear in two different positions (standing, squatting) to analyze pant fit. Total of 40 scans were used for the analyses. An evaluation of the pant fit was made by comparison of objective three-dimensional (3D) visual fit data (measures between the body and garment taken from cross sections at the knee, thigh, and crotch levels) and subjective survey items related to fit, mobility, and comfort level. Dissatisfaction with pant fit increased when pant ease amounts decreased, indicating that greater pant ease amounts are more likely to lead to higher satisfaction for fit and mobility. Body shape and apparel fit factors also affected mobility. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> User needs analysis II: Focus group study of firefighters<br /> <br /> <br /> " One additional focus group interview was conducted of 6 female firefighters to add to the focus group data collected by IA, MO, NY, and HI. <br /> <br /> <br /> " Further analysis of male and female firefighter focus group data was conducted. The following common issues were identified regarding the fit, function, and design for current firefighter gear: weight and breathability of coats and pants, poor fit of pants resulting in restricted mobility (e.g., crotch and waist), and pocket size and location problems. Firefighters also commented that their gloves and boots negatively impact their ability to accomplish certain tasks and movements. Overall, female firefighters expressed that turnout gear significantly limited their performance. The bulkiness and weight of the turnout gear made it difficult to use tools and equipment properly, as well as, inhibited general mobility. Some actions affected by the turnout gear were; grasping tools, tying knots, managing a radio, crawling through cramped spaces, and driving. Firefighters also commented that the heat and weight of the gear affected their physical and mental endurance.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> User needs analysis III: Physiological impact testing of firefighter gear<br /> <br /> <br /> " Physiological impact testing was conducted at IA in an environmental chamber using ten firefighters in their gear to determine thermoregulatory and metabolic responses to the physical stress of wearing turnout gear. Data analysis was completed by the ISU Kinesiology faculty members and currently at the stage of discussing the results with NC-170 members. <br /> <br /> <br /> " An extensive thermal study was conducted at OK using a sweating thermal manikin to study the relationship between microclimate temperature/humidity and body temperature/sweat rate, ultimately to develop the mathematical model and estimate firefighters body temperature from microclimate data measured by WSN. For the experiment, the range of core temperatures within the safe limits of human physiology was chosen, 36°C to 39°C, and tests were performed at 0.5 °C intervals. Thermal manikin Walter was dressed in a 100% cotton T-shirt, firefighter pants and the prototype firefighter coat integrated with wireless sensors. The walk-in environmental chamber was set at 20°C and 50% RH. The analysis of variance showed that sensor location and microclimate temperature have significant effects on core temperature estimation (both with p<0.01), whereas microclimate humiditys effect is not statistically significant (p=0.082). Further analysis revealed that the chest microclimate temperature was a better indicator than the back microclimate temperature (R2 = 0.308 and R2 = 0.138 respectively). <br /> <br /> <br /> " OK completed wear trials in a controlled environment, which is the final step in development of smart clothing. The firefighter garment was tested using six male subjects. The results presented that sensor location and MC temperature significantly affected the core temperature estimation (both with p<0.01), whereas the effect of MC humidity and MC temperature at back were not statistically significant on core temperature estimation (p=0.771 and p=0.11 respectively). From the results of this project, a request has been made by FireDex to develop a smart firefighter helmet. Another project has also been completed to perform standard and non standard testing of the new glove design comparing one commercially available firefighter glove. <br /> <br /> <br /> " OK developed an alert system based on stationary anchor nodes placed over a grid. Unresolved matter is to locate the downed firefighter relative to other (mobile) firefighter. Further investigation is required to find better solution that could be more robust algorithms or using a different technology. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3: Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology:<br /> <br /> <br /> " NY developed a new website Firefighters  Suit Up! using historical, current, and experimental turnout gear to increase awareness about how design features relate to fit, function, comfort, and safety. Users can drag-and-drop illustrations of pants, jackets, coveralls, and helmets onto a model to dress the firefighter. The site also invites users to compare their choices to those of others and to send suggestions to the website developers. <br /> <br /> <br /> " A second website in the Suit Up! series is being developed for pesticide handlers at NY. The interactive site asks users to identify the PPE statements on their pesticide labels, and then leads them through the decision-making process of choosing appropriate PPE. The aim is that pesticide handlers will use this website to study for their pesticide applicator certification, to answer PPE questions that arise on the job, and to achieve a safer working environment. This educational resource will link to the Pesticide Applicator Training Core Manual and be incorporated into the existing PPE educational program that includes certification trainings, exhibits, seminars, workshops, and telephone responses. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MN initiated outreach efforts with the Washington Technology Magnet High School in St Paul, MN. A field-trip workshop was conducted for their summer camp, to introduce middle-school girls to wearable technology through hands-on activities. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MD facilitated wear study research across university and industry. These preliminary will be used for designing a more extensive study to assist in development of educational materials. <br /> <br /> <br /> " ASTM F2669 - 09 Standard Performance Specification for Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Pesticides was approved as an ASTM International standard. ISO/DIS 27065 was also approved. The establishment of performance specifications will facilitate industry collaborations and serve as the basis for the development of educational materials. <br /> <br /> <br /> " MD updated and maintained the NC-170 website.

Publications

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS: <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Obendorf, S.K., Improving Personal Protection through Novel Materials, Olney Medal Address, AATCC Review, Vol. 10, No. 4: 44-50 (2010).<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Vivechana Dixit, Jagdish Tewari, and S. Kay Obendorf Fungal Growth Inhibition of Regenerated Cellulose Nanofibrous Membranes Containing Quillaja Saponin, Archive of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology DOI: 10.1007/s00244-010-9493-6<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Barker, J., Black, C., & Cloud, R. (2010). Comfort comparison of ballistic vest panels for police officers. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 6(3).<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Barker, J. & Black, C. (2009). Ballistic vests for police officers: Using clothing comfort theory to analyze personal protective clothing. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 2(2), 59-70.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Boorady, L., Rucker, P., Haise, C. & Ashdown, S.P., (2009) Analysis of active positions and PPE needs of agricultural workers Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 6(2), http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu/index.php/JTATM/article/viewFile/646/455.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 L.E. Dunne. Smart Clothing in Practice: Key Design Barriers to Commercialization. Fashion Practice, 2010, 2:1 p41-66.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Gang Sun, Protective performance of disposable and reusable gowns. Sustainable Textiles and Medical Protection Conference, June 1-2, Davis, CA<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Mark Ackerman and Margaret Rucker, Prediction of Protection Times for Wildland Fire Fighters Exposed to Thermal Radiation. Report submitted to CAL FIRE<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Xin Fei and Gang Sun, Oxidative degradation of organophosphorous pesticides by N-halamine fabrics, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research. V 48, 5604-5609<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Kyung Hwa Hong, Ning Lu, and Gang Sun, UV-induced graft polymerization of acrylamide on cellulose by using immobilized benzophenone as a photo-initiator, European Polymer Journal. V45, 2443-2449<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Bei Xiang, Kit S. Lam and Gang Sun, Functional fibrous polypropylene solid support and its application in solid phase peptide synthesis and cell specific binding, Reactive and Functional Polymers, Vol 69, 905-914<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Kyung Hwa Hong and Gang Sun, Photoactive Antimicrobial Agents/Polyurethanefinished leather, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Volume 115, Issue 2, Pages: 1138-1144.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Mohammad Reza Badrossamay and Gang Sun, A study of radical graft copolymerization on polypropylene during extrusion using two peroxide initiators, Polymer International, V59, 155-161.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Farzaneh Alihosseini, Jozsef Lango, Kou-San Ju, Bruce D. Hammock, and Gang Sun, Mutation of Bacterium Vibrio gazogenes for Selective Preparation of Colorants, Biotechnology Progress, 26: 352360 <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Ning Liu, Gang Sun, Sabyasachi Gaan, Patrick Rupper, Controllable surface modifications of polyamide by photo-induced graft polymerization using immobilized photo-initiators, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 116: 36293637<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Kyung Hwa Hong and Gang Sun Photoactive antimicrobial PVA hydrogel prepared by freeze-thawing process for wound dressing, Journal of Applied Polymer Science 116: 24182424<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Lianjiang Tan, Ding Pan, Ning Pan, Rheological Study on Thermal-induced Gelation Behavior of PAN Solution, Journal of Polymer Research, 16, 341350.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Ozcan Koysuren, Chunsheng Du, Ning Pan, Goknur Bayram, Preparation and Comparison of Two Electrodes for Supercapacitors: Pani/CNT/Ni and Pani/Alizarin treated Nickel, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 113, 10701081.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Moran Wang and Ning Pan, Elastic property of multiphase composites with random microstructure, Journal of Computational Physics, 228, 59785988.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Jing Gao and Ning Pan, Explanation of the Fractal Characteristics of Goose Down Configurations, Textile Research Journal, 79, 11421147.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Jing Gao, Ning Pan and Weidong Yu, Fractal character forecast of down fiber assembly microstructure, Journal of Textile Institute, 100, 539544. <br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Malcolm M. Q. Xing, Xiaoying Hui, Wen Zhong, Ning Pan, Frank Yaghmaie, H. I. Maibach, In vitro human topical bioactive drug transdermal absorption: Estradiol, Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 28, 171-175.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Hongying Yang, Sukang Zhu and Ning Pan, On the Kubelka-Munk Single-Constant/ Two-Constant Theories, Textile Research Journal, 80, 263 ~ 270. <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Jing Gao, Ning Pan and Weidong Yu, Compression Behavior Evaluation of Single-Down-Fiber and Down Fiber Assemblies, Journal of the Textile Institute, 101, 253260.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Lin, S. (2010). The case of Hawaii: Who will pay more for organic cotton? International Journal of Consumer Studies, 34(4), 481-489. <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Margaret Rucker, Prediction of medical waste from selected hospital statistics. Sustainable Textiles and Medical Protection Conference, June 1-2, Davis, CA<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Margaret Rucker, Whats important to doctors and nurses: an attitude survey. American Reusable Textile Association Conference, July 22-23, Quebec City, Quebec <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K. and Branson, D. (2010). Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M), August 2010<br /> <br /> <br /> PROCEEDINGS<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Woo, D.J., Hansen, N., Joo, Y.L., Obendorf, S.K., Morphological effects on self-decontamination of coaxial nanofiber containing TiO2 and MgO, Preceedings of the International Conference on Intelligent Textiles (ICIT2010) Seoul, Korea, June 16-18, 2010, p.94-95 (2010) www.icit2010.org ISBN 978-89-92265-14-0.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K. and Branson, D. (2010). Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M), August 2010<br /> <br /> <br /> PEER REVIEWED PRESENTATIONS: <br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 An, S. K. Park, H., Peksoz, S., Branson, D., & Cao, H. (2009, October). Development of estimation model to predict firefighters core temperature from microclimate data. Paper presented at the 2009 annual meeting of International Textile and Apparel Association, Bellevue, WA. <br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Ashdown, S.P., Technology in Research and Teaching: Exploring Novel Landscapes, Distinguished Scholar lecture, International Textile and Apparel Association, Bellevue, WA, Oct. 28-31, 2009, Abstract in the 2009 ITAA Proceedings.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Barker, J., Lee, Y. A., Boorady, L., Ashdown, S., & Lin, S-H. Firefighter turnout gear: Assessment of User Needs, Conference of International Textile and Apparel Association in Bellevue, WA, October 28-31, 2009.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Peksoz, S, Park, H., An, S.K. and Cao, H. (2009). Smart clothing for firefighter protection. Proceedings of Intelligent Textiles and Mass Customization International Conference. ISBN :978-9954-8878-1-4. Casablanca, Morocco, November 12-14, 2009. <br /> <br /> <br /> 2009 Peksoz, S., Starr, C., Choi, K., Kamenidis, P., Park, H. and Branson, D. (2009). Evaluation of Prototype Personal Cooling Interfaced with a Liquid Cooled Garment under Hazmat Suits. ITAA Proceedings #66 Annual Meeting, Bellevue, Washington, October 28-31, 2009.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Shaw, A, C. Coffman, and A. Brown Garment Wear Study to Determine the Pesticide Protective Performance of Cotton/Polyester Fabrics with a Fluorochemical Finish, 2010 International Conference and Exhibition, American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, Atlanta, Georgia.<br /> <br /> <br /> INVITED PRESENTATIONS/PAPERS: <br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Boorady, L.M. (April 2010) Design and Development of Industrial Clothing. Industrial Clothing  Exploring New Challenges seminar. Royal University for Women, Kingdom of Bahrain (Invited)<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Obendorf, S. Kay, Personal Protection through Nanotechnology, NANO magazine, Issue 17, April, pp. 014-017 (2010). (Invited Paper)<br /> <br /> <br /> INTERNET SITES: <br /> <br /> <br /> Body Scanning for Apparel, <http://www.bodyscan.human.cornell.edu><br /> <br /> <br /> Firefighter Gear < http://www.firefightergear.human.cornell.edu > <br /> <br /> <br /> Personal Pesticide Protection, <http://www.human.cornell.edu/che/fsad/outreach/programs/personal-pesticide-protection/index.cfm/> <br /> <br /> <br /> Sizing and Fit of Apparel, <http://sizingsystems.human.cornell.edu><br /> <br /> <br /> THESIS<br /> <br /> <br /> 2010 Spero, E. F., Performance of Self-Decontaminating Textiles for Chemical Protective Clothing, MS Thesis, Cornell University, 2010<br /> <br />

Impact Statements

1. The work on self-detoxification contributes to the growing field of chemically engineered materials aimed at enhancing the safety of medical staff, chemical workers, and first receivers.
2. Improved design of protective coveralls for agricultural workers and of turnout gear for firefighters contributes to both comfort and safety of the workers.
3. Development of virtual fit methodologies to contribute to the development of sizing systems can provide a powerful tool for improving the fit and sizing of PPE.
4. 300 pesticide handlers in NY increased their knowledge of PPE regulations and PPE choice.
5. A CAL FIRE workgroup has used the UCD data in the Prediction of Protection Times report to change the recommendations regarding minimum RPP and THL levels.
6. Reports of ISU research at IA were continuously publicized by various media and ISU served as an information source for purchasing agents from two fire departments.
7. MO was asked by a committee member of the NFPA to conduct a study on the station footwear worn by firefighters. Results of the body scan study at MO were given and discussed with local fire officials and the MUFTRI. The results of this study corroborated with other studies that firefighters need training and encouragement to maintain or improve physical fitness.
8. MN work focused on overcoming the comfort/accuracy tradeoff inherent to garment-integrated sensing is crucial to enabling applications like pervasive healthcare and physiological monitoring. Outreach and collaborative research efforts with Virginia Tech aim to overcome the disciplinary obstacles to providing personal protection and enabling next-generation applications through wearable technology and body-sensing.
9. ASEM performance specifications will be used to develop conformity assessment (certification) standard for certification of protective clothing to be sold in the United States. Collaborations with partners in other countries will assist in the development of consistent requirements and of educational materials for protective clothing.
10. Fabrics embedded with MPCMs and made into linings for PPE produce a safer and more productive environment for firefighters or other people working in extremely hot conditions. Development of fabric embedded with MPCMs can be used in other applications such as gloves, hats, socks, shoes, or other clothing to keep individuals cool in hot temperatures or while performing strenuous activities.
11. Online educational resources have the potential to reach nationwide audiences and to ease the time burden of resource development for safety educators.
12. Performance specifications will be used to develop conformity assessment (certification) standard for certification of protective clothing to be sold in the United States.
13. Collaborations with partners in other countries will assist in the development of consistent requirements and of educational materials for protective clothing.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

<b>Objective 1: Develop and evaluate new textiles and materials systems and processes</b><br /> <br /> NY developed and evaluated new textiles and materials systems and processes.<br /> New self-decontaminating materials that are defined as substances or objects designed and fabricated to deactivate pathogenic microorganisms or chemical warfare agents were developed to be used in personal protective equipment PPE. Engineering the self-contaminating protective systems considered both catalytic performance and the structure and property of substrate using TiO2 and MgO as self-decontaminating catalysts. Coaxial electrospinning was used to tune the catalyst location in the surface region within the nanofiber thus increasing the rate of decontamination. Electrospinning of co-continuous polymer blends of polyethylene oxide (PEO) / cellulose acetate (CA) in a noble solution process was used to form deep and interconnected channels/pores in the fibers after removal of PEO. These new materials will be used for further development of self-decontaminating materials for use in PPE and in enhancing indoor air quality.<br /> <br /> CA continued the work on development of chemical and biological protective clothing materials. Halamine containing polyolefin nanofibers and nanofibrous membranes were prepared in this laboratory. Biological protective functions of the membranes were evaluated, and chemical detoxifying functions are still under examination. So far, these membranes demonstrated powerful biocidal functions against bacteria and could prevent bacteria wet penetration through the membrane and still keep moisture transport properties. The membrane also oxidized aldicarb rapidly. In addition, the nanofibrous membranes possess high moisture transport properties but relatively low air permeability. These membranes are suitable materials for liners of chemical/biological protective clothing.<br /> <br /> CA also investigated photo-active functions of some benzophenone and anthraquinone compounds and found that these compounds could generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) under UVA and daylight. These ROSs could provide antimicrobial and self-detoxification functions. Results have been published in several articles. This is a promising green technology that can be applied in protective clothing and devices. The results of the research have drawn additional funding from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency regarding the use of these nanofibers in chemical/biological protective clothing. In addition, CA is analyzing heat conduction in porous media. By analyzing the irreversibility of heat conduction in porous media and its relation to effective thermal conductivities (ETC), a nondimensional entransy dissipation rate (NER) has been developed as an objective function in optimizing the thermal behaviors of a complex medium or designing a material system with desired thermal performance for a given condition. <br /> <br /> <b>Objective 2: To design and evaluate garment systems and processes.</b><br /> <br /> NY is continuing to test the new coverall design that was developed with the goal of maximize movement without sacrificing comfort or protection, and minimizing the overall silhouette to reduce the incidence of tears from catching on equipment or orchard tree branches. The new design with pleated insets at stress points was compared to two commercial coverall designs in a pilot fit test conducted with 13 pesticide applicators (10 females; 3 males) using the 3D body scanner. Participants were scanned wearing the three coverall styles in five different positions common to the process of pesticide application. The data are being analyzed with particular attention to the stress on the garment caused by bending and reaching. Field testing is being that includes wear study and focus group meetings to investigate the size and fit issues of three coverall designs is being conducted by HI, NY, CA and CO.<br /> <br /> IA, NY, HI, and Buffalo State completed the analysis of male and female firefighter focus group data. IA also compared 3D visual pant fit and wearers subjective acceptability. HI and Buffalo State analyzed firefighters' turnout gear. Buffalo State also contacted local fire stations for donations of used bunker gear including gloves and footwear. In addition, photographs taken during firefighter training were used to evaluate the fit and method of wearing bunker gear and equipment. NY acquired a 3D scanner that captures higher resolution data for hand anthropometry and glove design.<br /> <br /> MN developed method and protocol for measuring the 3D movement of garments relative to the body surface. Set of 25 custom-designed denim trousers fabricated for experimental evaluation of impact of fit and textile properties on movement of garments over the body surface.<br /> Movement data has been collected from these custom pants and is currently under extensive analysis. MN is also collaborating with Virginia Techs e-textiles laboratory on a project titled Electronic textiles for ambulatory health monitoring. This project has implications for garment-integrated sensing in many personal protective technology applications. MN secured funds from 3M to support smart clothing research titled Highly Functional Apparel: Textile-Integrated Sensing for Body and Environment Monitoring" and from the University of Minnesota Imagine Fund to support smart clothing research titled Body- and Emotionally-Responsive Smart Clothing Through Garment-Integrated Sensor-Actuator Systems. Funding was also secured from Nokia Research to support a graduate course and subsequent research projects in mobile interfaces.<br /> <br /> CA collected and summarized data on perceptions of potential sources of hospital-acquired infections and critical failures of medical textiles have been summarized and published. Research on consumer acceptance of recycled clothing materials compared to virgin materials has been extended by examining how perceptions varied when the materials were associated with different types of brands. <br /> <br /> CO worked on a hospital gown redesign project entitled Development of innovative hospital apparel was initiated and collaborative partnership with Poudre Valley Health System, Fort Collins-Loveland, CO was developed. Data collection for phase 1 (user survey) was completed. CO also conducted preliminary work on foot scanning and use of an eye tracker, to compare aesthetic visualization between the designer and the user. <br /> <br /> <b>Objective 3: Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology</b> <br /> <br /> NY developed components for a new website Pesticide Handlers  Suit Up! This year garment illustrations, male and female figures, Excel files, and the website framework was completed. Participants have been recruited and a protocol has been established to pilot test the website as soon as it is functional. <br /> <br /> <br /> MD is developing a database with PPE requirements on over 1600 EPA approved pesticide labels. This database includes information on active ingredient, EPE registration number, pesticide type, garment, respirator, glove and other accessories requirements. MD also conducted study to compare the results of pesticide penetration through used garments and a rapid test method to determine the performance of used garments with repellent finish. The rapid test method has the potential for use as an end of life indicator for PPE with repellent finish.<br /> <br /> MN included mobility and fit in the design of disposable coveralls as part of undergraduate course. The project was developed in conjunction with 3M. As a result, 3M has hired an undergraduate intern for summer 2011 to re-design garment patterns and conduct an analysis of their existing sizing system. <br />

Publications

<b>PUBLICATIONS - 2010</b><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., and Loker, S., (2010). Mass customized target market sizing: Extending the sizing paradigm for improved apparel fit, Design Practice, 2(2), pp. 147-173. <br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Devine, C., and Erickson, P.D. (2010). Research in body/garment relationships, Proceedings of the International Conference on 3D Body Scanning Technologies, Lugano, Switzerland, Oct. 19-20. Hometrica Consulting, Zurich, Switzerland. www.hometrica.ch.<br /> <br /> Barker, J., Black, C., and Cloud, R. (2010). Comfort comparison of ballistic vest panels for police officers. Journal of Textile and Apparel Technology and Management, 6 (3). <br /> <br /> Cheng, K. C., Lin, S., and Chang, C. P., (2010). Preparation and sustained release properties of alginate capsules containing coffee extracts. Journal of the Hwa Gang, 17(2), 94-100. <br /> <br /> Cheng, K. Z., Lin, S., Chang, C. P., Lin, M. H, and Kuo, Y.L., (2010). Preparation and sustained <br /> release properties of alginate capsules coffee extracts. The 26th Taiwan Fiber and Textiles Conference Proceedings, PA-07, Taiwan.<br /> <br /> Choi, S.Y. and Ashdown, S.P., (2010). 3D body scan analysis of dimensional change in lower body measurements for active body positions. Textile Research Journal, 81(1), pp 81-93. <br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., (2010). Beyond the Second Skin: An Experimental Approach to Addressing Garment Style and Fit Variables in the Design of Sensing Garments. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education, 3:3 p109-117.<br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., (2010). Optical Bend Sensing for Wearable Goniometry: Exploring the Comfort/Accuracy Tradeoff. Research Journal of Textiles and Apparel.14:4 p73-80.<br /> <br /> Gan, Y., Cheng, L., Ding, X., and Pan, N., (2010). Blood flow fluctuation underneath human forearm skin caused by local thermal stimuli of different fabrics, Journal of Thermal Biology, V 35, 352-377. <br /> <br /> Gao, J., Pan, N., and Yu, W., (2010). Compression behavior evaluation of single-down-fiber and down fiber assemblies, Journal of the Textile Institute, V 101, 253-260.<br /> <br /> Hong, K.H., and Sun, G., (2010). Benzophenone Incorporated Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogels as Photo-induced Antimicrobial Materials, Polymer Engineering and Science, V 50. 1780-1787.<br /> <br /> Lin, S., (2010). Exploratory analysis of Chinese-American family caregivers' needs and instructional video on dressing stroke survivors. International Journal of Consumer Studies, 34(5), 581-586.<br /> <br /> Lin, C. A., Hsieh, M. S., Cheag, R. J., Chen, Y.C., Lin, S., and Chang, C. P., (2010). Preparation and sustained properties of various deacetylated chitosan capsules containing collagen. Journal of the Hwa Gang, 17(1), 25-32. <br /> <br /> Lukas, D., Pan, N., Sarkar, A., Weng, M., Chaloupek, J., Kostakova, E., Ocheretna, L., Miles, P., Pociute, M., and Amler, E., (2010). Auto-model based computer simulation of Plateau-Rayleigh instability of mixtures of immiscible liquids, Physical A., V 389, 2164-2176.<br /> <br /> Nastaran, H., and Sun, G., (2010). Intermolecular Interactions between Surfactants and Cationic Dyes and Effect on Antimicrobial Properties, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research V 49, 8347-8352<br /> <br /> Pan, N., (2010). Recent progress in soft materials science, International Journal of Nonlinear Sciences and Numerical Simulation, V 11, 1.<br /> <br /> Park, J., DeLong, M., and Woods, E., (2010). Quantification of aesthetic viewing using eye tracking technology: The influence of previous training in apparel design. Proc. of the 2010 Symposium on Eye-Tracking Research & Applications, 153-155. <br /> <br /> Park, J., Kim, D., and Sohn, M., (2010). 3D simulation as an effective instructional tool for enhancing spatial visualization skills in apparel design. International Journal of Technology and Design Education.Advance online publication. doi: 10.1007/s10798-010-9127-3 <br /> <br /> Shaw, A., (2010). Global Perspective on Protective Clothing for Pesticide Operators Outlooks on Pest Management, pages 257-260, <br /> <br /> Song, H.K. and Ashdown, S. P., (2010). An Exploratory Study of the Validity of Visual Fit Assessment from Three-Dimensional Scans, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 28(4), pp. 263-278. <br /> <br /> Xiang, B., Sun, G., Lam, K.S., and Xiao, K., (2010). Novel poly (ethylene-co-acrylic acid) Nanofibrous Biomaterials for Peptide Synthesis and Biomedical Applications, Journal of Biomedical Materials Research: Part A. V 95A, 245-255.<br /> <br /> Xue, C., Wang, D., Xiang B., Chiou, B.S., and Sun G., (2010). Morphology Evolution of Polypropylene in Immiscible Polymer Blends for Fabrication of Nanofibers, Journal of Polymer Science, Part B: Polymer Physics. V 48, 921-931. 2010<br /> <br /> Xue, C., Wang, D., Xiang, B., Chiou, B.S., and Sun G., (2010). Controlled and high throughput fabrication of poly (trimethylene terephthalate) nanofibers via melt extrusion of immiscible blends, Materials Chemistry and Physics. V 124, 48-51<br /> <br /> Yang, H., Zhu, S., and Pan, N., (2010). On the Kubelka-Munk single constant/two constant theories, Textile Research Journal, V 80, 263-270<br /> <br /> Thesis<br /> <br /> Song, H.K, Categorization of Womens Lower Body Shapes using Multi-view 3D Body Scan Measurements, and Development of Shape-driven Automated Custom Patterns, Ph.D. Dissertation, Cornell University, 2010<br /> <br /> <b>PUBLICATIONS - 2011</b><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., (2011). Improving body movement comfort in apparel, book chapter in Comfort in Clothing, Editor Song, G., Woodhead Publishing Limited, Cambridge, UK.<br /> <br /> Boorady, L.M., (2011). Functional Clothing: Principles of Fit. Indian Journal for Fibre and Textile Research (IJFTR) <br /> <br /> Chen, Q., Zhu, H., Pan, N., and Guo, Z., (2011). An Alternative Criterion in Heat Transfer Optimization, Proc. R. Soc. A., V 467, 10121028.<br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., Gioberto, G., Ramesh, V., and Koo, H., (2011). Measuring Movement of Denim Trousers for Garment-Integrated Sensing Applications. Proc. of the ACM Engineering in Medicine and Biology Conference, Boston. <br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., Gioberto, G., and Koo, H., (2011). A Method of Measuring Garment Movement for Wearable Sensing, Proc. of the 15th IEEE International Symposium on Wearable Computers, San Francisco, CA, USA. <br /> <br /> Hong, K. H., and Sun, G., (2011). Photoactive antibacterial cotton fabrics treated by 3,3,4,4-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride, Carbohydrate Polymers, V 84, 10271032.<br /> <br /> Obendorf, S. K., (2011). Improving the functionality of clothing through novel pesticide protection/Novel pesticide protective clothing, Functional textiles for improved performance, protection and health, Part 2: Functional textiles for improved medical and health purposes, ed. N. Pan and G. Sun, Woodhead Publishing, Ltd, Cambridge, UK, pp. 433-460.<br /> <br /> Park, S. M., Choi, K.M., Nam, Y. J., and Lee, Y. A., (2011). Multi-purpose three-dimensional body form. International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, 23 (1), 8-24.<br /> <br /> Rucker, M., Brasch, J., and Haise, C., (2011). Textile products and prevention of hospital acquired infections, Journal of Medical Marketing, V 11, 156-164.<br /> <br /> Song, H.K., and Ashdown, S.P., (2011). Categorization of Lower Body Shapes Based on Multiple View Analysis, Textile Research Journal, 81, (9), pp 914-931.<br /> <br /> Wang, D., and Sun, G., (2011). Novel Polymer Blends from Polyester and Bio-Based Cellulose Ester, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, V 119, No. 4 2302-2309<br /> <br /> Wang, D., Sun, G., and Yu, L., (2011). Recyclability of Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB) Matrix for Controllable and Productive Fabrication of Thermoplastic Nanofibers, Carbohydrate Polymers, V 83, 1095-1100.<br /> <br /> Zong, Y., and Lee, Y. A., (2011). An exploratory study of integrative approach between 3D body scanning technology and motion capture system in the apparel industry. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 4 (2), 91-101.<br /> <br /> Thesis<br /> <br /> Lange, L.E., Effects of Plasma Etching on Self-Decontaminating Properties of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles in Polypropylene Fibers Tested with Methyl Parathion, MS Thesis Cornell University, 2011.<br /> <br /> Brasch, J.E., Medical textiles that suit the user: Predicting healthcare workers' preference for disposable versus reusable surgical gowns, MS Thesis, University of California at Davis, 2011. <br /> <br />

Impact Statements

1. Improved design of protective coveralls for agricultural workers contributes to both comfort and safety of the workers.
2. Development of 3D scan methodologies for characterizing changes in the hand in active positions can provide a powerful tool for improving protective glove design.
3. New self-decontaminating materials will increase safety for industrial workers, first responders, and military personnel. As well, these new materials offer the potential of improving indoor air quality.
4. ASTM performance specifications will be used to develop conformity assessment (certification) standard for certification of protective clothing to be sold in the United States.
5. The work on self-detoxification contributes to the growing field of chemically engineered materials aimed at enhancing the safety of medical staff, chemical workers, and first receivers.
6. Online educational resources have the potential to reach nationwide audiences and to ease the time burden of resource development for safety educators.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

<b>Objective 1: <i>Develop and evaluate new textiles and materials systems and processes</i></b><br><br><br /> Development of new textiles and material systems has been focused in the areas of antibacterial and detoxifying properties, modeling, analysis and modification of heat transfer properties, and conceptualization of infrared camouflage properties. <br><br><br /> With the demonstrated antibacterial power and chemical detoxifying ability of halamine chemistry on woven textiles, CA further developed halamine polypropylene and polyethylene fibers, nonwovens, and nanofibrous membranes for chemical and biological protective clothing. In addition to the funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the research on nanofibrous membranes was supported by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). <br><br><br /> In addition to the halamine technologies, CA has also developed another new technology: light-induced generation of reactive oxygen species from selected colorants. The concept-proofing studies have drawn attention from researchers, and a news release on this research was provided by a leading material science journal, the Journal of Materials Chemistry, in 2011. <br><br><br /> NY worked on the development of self-decontaminating textile materials by using TiO2, MgO, and metal organic framework (MOF) in fibers. The photo-oxidation mechanism with energy in the ultra-violet region results in strong oxidation by TiO2. In contrast, MgO functions through surface destructive adsorption, and thus does not require exposure to UV radiation for self-decontamination. MgO was effective in the decomposition of organophosphates. The use of nano-channeled and porous fibers developed by co-continuous nanofiber fabrication increased the self-decontamination performance of the fibrous membranes. Metal organic frameworks (MOF) enmeshed in nanofibrous membranes were found to adsorb methyl parathion. Placing polyoxametalate with the MOF cage is being investigated as self-decontaminating materials for incorporation into fibers engineered to increase chemical and biological protection. <br><br><br /> Fibrous materials as multi-phase media consist mainly of fiber and moistured air. Therefore, the heat transfer process in such materials is very complex, either in single heat conduction where multiple components of fiber, moisture, and air and intricate interfacial phenomena between them are involved, or much more so in a combined process including heat conduction, convection, and radiation. CA developed a theoretical model dealing with the multi-layer unsteady-state heat conduction to assess the effect due to local convection during the testing. Accordingly an unsteady-state apparatus has been devised that can simultaneously measure two thermophysical properties (the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity), by which the volumetric capacity can then be calculated. <br><br><br /> OK developed an apparel design with the use of a special evaporation assistance device, which has the potential to significantly improve the textile systems moisture evaporation performance. The results showed that using these special devices can significantly reduce evaporative thermal resistance from completely vapor impermeable (Ret>900 kpa"m2/W) to a much more comfortable level (Ret<35 kpa"m2/W). <br><br><br /> OK initiated producing nanofibers with selected individual and combined phase change materials (PCMs) using a base fabric, a polyester fabric, conductive yarn, and the selected PCMs. Combined PCMs using an electrospinner have the potential of widening the temperature range of the fabric to increase serviceability. Using a single needle electrospinner, 15 cm × 15 cm fabric samples of thermal plastic polyurethane (TPU) plus PCMs onto a 100% polyester conductive fabric were created. Additional samples were created using a method that uses a multi-coaxial electrospinner; all samples were subjected to characterization through SEM, TEM, and air permeability. <br><br><br /> Infrared camouflage without resorting to existing and often burdensome technologies is clearly attractive. CA proposed a primary prototype to achieve the infrared camouflage by facilitating the latent heat transfer while controlling the sensible heat transfer of the human body. The influences of related key parameters, including the porosity and the thickness for each layer are briefly discussed using the model. The results show that a satisfactory infrared camouflage may be accomplished using all the layers proposed under specified structural conditions. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Objective 2: <i>To design and evaluate garment systems and processes</i></b><br><br><br /> During this five-year period, the needs of workers in three types of hazardous occupations have been investigated - fire fighters/first responders, healthcare workers, and agricultural workers engaged in pesticide application. In addition, studies were conducted on the use of smart textiles in garments. A disposable coverall prototype for agricultural workers was developed and tested. Garments currently on the market as well as prototypes have been evaluated for safety and consumer acceptance. Methodology studies were conducted to develop new ways of testing fit and sizing systems for functional clothing, and universal design and collaborative design concepts were applied to functional apparel design. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>First Responder PPE</b><br><br /> <i>User needs analysis: Firefighter focus group meetings</i> - Four states, IA, MO, NY, and HI collaborated to conduct focus group meetings to collect data on needs and issues related to firefighter gear. A total of 12 focus groups were conducted in five different states, utilizing 101 career and volunteer firefighters from 11 different fire departments, both male and female. Information was collected regarding the fit, function, and design of current firefighter turnout gear. Focus group data were analyzed and the following common issues were identified: weight and breathability of coats and pants, poor fit of pants resulting in restricted mobility (e.g. crotch and waist), and pocket size and location. Firefighters also commented that their gloves and boots negatively impact their ability to accomplish certain tasks and movements. Problems in the fit and function of the gear were also investigated as case studies through in-depth interviews, scans, and videotapes of three career firefighters. A nine page interview addressing comfort, protection, mobility, function, donning, and education was conducted with each firefighter, and videotape data were collected on the donning of five different turnout suits by each firefighter. Results highlight firefighter concerns about the weight of the gear and overheating when wearing it for most calls (for which they felt over-protected), issues with the attachment of (and movement issues related to) equipment to pockets and hung off the Personal Protective Equipment, and the incidence of compression burns. Donning issues were suit specific and included problems with visibility of fasteners such as zippers, issues with overlaps that were not wide enough to grasp and fasten easily, and overall close fit. Fourteen specific recommendations on suit design were generated. Focus group meetings will continue based on this research methodology to gather more data on glove and boot function. <br><br><br /> <i>User needs analysis: Firefighter (wearer) acceptability survey</i> - IA administered a wearer acceptability survey, including the acceptability level of firefighters gear fit and mobility, to 87 firefighters recruited from the Winter Fire School. Results showed that firefighters felt their gear was uncomfortable due to misfit, and that the gear limited their mobility during firefighting duties. In particular, mobility restriction was found to be a more important element than the pants size, and crotch and knee areas played an important role in the level of their satisfaction with pants fit. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Protocol development: Analysis of firefighter gear design</i> - A test of the fit and function of five different designs of firefighter gear was conducted in collaboration and with support from Globe Manufacturing. The fit of the gear was assessed in several range-of-motion and active positions (3 active poses, 2 range-of-motion poses, and a standing pose), developed from the literature and from interview data. Fit assessment was made from scan images and showed a relationship between design features and the fit of the gear. Analysis of the stress folds showed variations among the different uniform models, both in scale and location. Analysis of range of movement showed more variation among the firefighters than between different models of the suits. <br><br><br /> <br /> NY also tested the firefighter gear function of the five designs by measuring energy expenditure, oxygen consumption, heart rate, skin temperature, galvanic skin responses, and acceleration data of firefighters wearing the gear while engaged in active tasks, including walking on a treadmill and climbing a ladder, swinging a tool and crawling. For IA, 10 participants walked for 30 minutes on a treadmill in a hot environment (40ºC) while wearing a) shorts and a t-shirt and b) their own firefighter gear to determine the physiological impact of firefighter gear. The exercise intensity was designed to elicit 70 to 80% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate. IA evaluated these responses in an environmental chamber, NY in ambient indoor conditions. Results from NY and IA studies did not show significant differences between the different gear designs in physiological responses. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Analysis of population</i> - MO completed a body scan study of 100 firefighters (12 female, 88 male). It was found that the male participant group was taller and heavier than the average male when compared to the entire SizeUSA sample. Additional body scanning needs to be conducted on a larger and more diverse part of the firefighter population to determine if a different sizing system would be useful or necessary. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Proof of concept: Development of smart clothing for firefighters</i> - OK modified a firefighter coat and gloves to integrate wireless sensors and transmitters to monitor a firefighters vital signs and location. In collaboration with electrical engineers, a code was developed to transmit, analyze, and compare data to baseline values, transmitting wirelessly from a base back to the firefighter to signal life threatening conditions. Using thermal manikin (Walter) testing, a mathematical model was developed to estimate a firefighters body temperature from microclimate (MC) data measured by the wireless sensor network. For the experiment, the range of core temperatures within the safe limits of human physiology was chosen, 36°C to 39°C, and tests were performed at 0.5°C intervals. The optimum placement of sensors for predicting elevated core temperature was determined. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Wear test of smart clothing for firefighters</i> - OK conducted wear trials of the uniform modified to incorporate wireless sensors in a controlled environment. Six male subjects tested the uniform in an environmental chamber set at the relative humidity of 50±3%, with an ambient temperature increasing from 30±3ºC to 37±3ºC as subjects walked on a treadmill using an interval training protocol alternating walking and sprinting. Results showed that sensor location and MC temperature significantly affect the core temperature estimation. The core temperatures were regressed to the MC temperature at the chest, and the ambient temperature and ambient relative humidity were measured by wireless sensors. The following equation was obtained: TCore = 35.758 + 0.122 *TChest - 0.05*TAmb -0.015*HAmb R2=.550 <br><br> <br /> <br /> <i>Glove testing</i> - OK conducted a comfort and dexterity study of the smart glove for firefighters using both standard and nonstandard testing methods. The new glove design, with and without embedded electronics, was compared to a commercially available firefighter glove. The analysis showed the smart glove has merit, although some improvements are necessary. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Test of a modified ballistic vest for 1st responders to provide thermal comfort</i> - Previous studies at OK introduced the concept of spacer insertion into the ballistic garment in order to create ventilation and lower the thermal insulation of the body armor. Furthermore, as it is known from the literature, stand-off body armor decreases the risk of back face trauma injuries. An experiment that combined both concepts was designed and conducted to explore if a stand-off outer tactical vest (OTV) can provide adequate space between the human body and OTV in order for natural air circulation to occur and provide sufficient cooling to the wearer. The dry thermal (Rct) intrinsic thermal (Rcl) evaporative (Ret) and intrinsic evaporative (Recl) measurements were obtained for two prototype designs with different configurations of spacers under three different wind velocities. Analysis revealed that combining the standoff vest and spacer reduced the thermal insulation of the vest significantly and as expected all thermal resistance variables were reduced with higher wind speed. The prototype with an even distribution of stand-off around the torso performed significantly better than the other prototype that had stand-off space only at the back of the torso. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Disposable Coverall for Agricultural Workers</b><br><br /> <i>Product development and testing</i> - A data-collection questionnaire and focus group methodology was developed and administered by NY, MN, HI, and IA. The results of this data collection were collaboratively analyzed and applied by the member states using a combination of video conferencing and in-person design meetings. An improved design of disposable protective coveralls for agricultural workers was developed based on this analysis in a collaborative effort by these members; from data from user interviews and questionnaires; from analysis of photographs of workers in the field; and from discussions with manufacturers to review materials, cost considerations, and production constraints. The prototype coverall maximizes movement without sacrificing comfort or protection and minimizes the overall silhouette to reduce the incidence of tears from catching on equipment or orchard tree branches. Design modifications in the prototype include pleated sections at the shoulders, buttocks, and knees. NY and MO collaborated to develop a sizing system for the new coverall design based on data from the SizeUSA anthropometric survey. Sets of the coveralls were produced for fit testing and field testing. A field test methodology was developed to test the prototype against two commercial coverall styles: the current most popular disposable coverall design and a coverall with a provision of stretch panels for movement. A pilot fit test was conducted of the three styles of coverall with pesticide applicators using the 3D body scanner. Participants were scanned wearing the three coverall styles in five different positions common to the process of pesticide application. <br><br> <br /> <br /> <i>Wear testing of disposable coveralls</i> - NY, CA, HI, and CO participated in the coverall wear testing study. Forty-five participants tested the prototype coverall and two commercial coveralls in field conditions. A log of activities performed and coverall performance was collected. Questionnaires on fit and function perception were administered. All coveralls were examined for abrasions, tears, and cuts. Selected participants participated in focus group discussions of the coveralls after the field tests. Data analysis is underway. <br><br><br /> <br /> Testing and technology transfer of this coverall design will continue. In order to facilitate technology transfer, industry sources will be contacted to explore issues related to manufacturing potential and limitations. <br><br><br /> <b>Protective Clothing for Healthcare Workers</b><br /> <br /> <i>Hospital apparel redesign</i> <br /> The hospital apparel redesign project was initiated by CO in partnership with Poudre Valley Health System, Fort Collins-Loveland. Funding was secured from Colorado State Universitys Infectious Disease Super Cluster to support the project. Survey questionnaires were administered to patients and healthcare providers, in order to assess end-user needs. The survey data identified functional, expressive, and aesthetic attributes toward hospital patient apparel, and these attributes offered the researchers design considerations and prototype evaluation criteria for the hospital apparel redesign project. CA expanded healthcare user acceptance studies to include other textile products such as warm-up jackets in addition to operating room gowns and drapes. The purpose of the immobile patient gown project was to explore the self-reported needs and concerns of the family caregivers of stroke survivors soon after discharge to the home settings and to create a training video for family caregivers on dressing immobile persons. In-depth, semi-structured, open-ended interviews were used to explore the problems of caregivers of stroke survivors. Forty participants were recruited from Chinese-American communities. Verbatim interview transcripts were coded and analyzed. Among other concerns, participants expressed a need for guidance for daily activities, such as dressing. <br><br><br /> <b>Smart Clothing Research and Product Development</b><br><br /> MN has worked on several smart clothing and e-textile projects, with support from the National Science Foundation, 3M, and the University of Minnesota. These projects focused on measuring and characterizing the noise and error experienced by a garment-integrated sensor due to movement of the garment over the body surface. <br><br><br /> <br /> The error introduced into a sensor signal by the movement of a worn garment can render the signal useless for activity-recognition, medical monitoring, or device-interface applications. However, means of reducing garment movement are often directly at odds with wearer comfort. MN has developed a method and protocol for measuring the 3D movement of garments relative to the body surface, which allows this movement to be quantified and characterized in detail. Data have been collected measuring the movement of a skin-tight bodysuit over the body surface, and a set of 25 custom-designed denim trousers fabricated for the experimental evaluation of impact of fit and textile properties on movement of garments over the body surface. These datasets have been captured using an optical motion-capture system. In addition, error in an actual sensor (bend sensor located at the knee) has also been assessed and measured across a size grade. <br><br><br /> <br /> Collaboration with Virginia Tech e-textile laboratory applies the outcomes of laboratory experiments measuring error in the development of a set of loosely-fitted, sensor-enabled medical and therapeutic monitoring garments that perform simultaneous activity recognition and monitoring. This project has implications for garment-integrated sensing in many personal protective technology applications. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Methodology Development for Fit and Size Assessment</b><br> <br /> <i>Use of scan data for anthropometric analysis</i> - 3D body scan data can be used to measure non-traditional body measurements to quantify complex body angles, to define measurement relationships that define body shapes in a sophisticated multi-dimensional manner, and to capture changes in body surface measurements in active positions. Studies were conducted of both upper and lower body measurements in active positions from scan data. In another study, principal component analysis and clustering of selected measurements taken from 3D scans were used to categorize lower body shapes, capturing both silhouette and profile data using a range of body depth, breadth, circumference, and arc measurements. Work will continue on data capture and data analysis of measurements in active positions and on investigations of the use of this information in design and in fit analysis. <br><br><br /> <br /> <br /> <i>Use of scan data for fit assessment</i> - Scan data is a powerful source of data for fit and sizing analysis of garments. To develop the potential of this analysis method, NY did a study of garments with misfit that were scanned on study participants. The fit of the garments was assessed on the participants, and then 3D images of the garments were also assessed by a set of independent fit experts to judge misfit and amount of change needed. A comparison of the scan analysis and the actual alterations made in the clothing to achieve good fit shows that the scanner is an effective tool for the analysis of overall ease values and misfit visible in stress folds in the garments. This analysis is less effective for identifying small variations in ease values and for aesthetic issues such as the balance of woven garments and the fit of set-in sleeves at the armscye. Another test was conducted by MN to compare expert analysis of scan data and subject self-fit assessment. Results showed agreement between the expert and participant judgment of fit, especially in the smaller and larger sizes. <br><br><br /> <br /> IA compared the results of the 3D visual fit analysis (objective fit assessment) of 10 male firefighters with the results of their wearer acceptability survey (subjective fit assessment) comprising a total of 25 questions related to fit acceptability and mobility acceptability. Scanned images of the firefighters in two positions, standing and stepping, both in form-fitted clothing and wearing turnout pants, were merged to estimate the ease between the pants and the body. Cross-sectional profiles at the knee, thigh, and crotch levels were taken for data analysis and compared with the survey results. Results showed that decreased pants ease amounts resulted in increased dissatisfaction with pants fit. Appropriate ease at the crotch level was especially important to improve gear fit and mobility. Results provided fundamental information to develop firefighter gear with high wearer acceptability in ergonomic terms by quantifying subjective data such as wear acceptability into numerical data associated with ergonomic pattern designs. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Development of methodology for testing sizing systems</i> - NY tested the effectiveness of different sizing systems, comparing four sizes of women's jackets with small differences in bust and waist ease values, and different drop (bust to hip proportion) values. Participants were assigned a garment in the size of best fit from each system. Fit judges then ranked the jackets from best fit to worst fit. There was some variation in judges rankings, but overall this method was successful, and forms the basis for testing of sizing systems. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Virtual fit for development of sizing systems for PPE</i> - NY developed a test of the usefulness of virtual fit programs for collection of fit data. Methods have been developed for creation of a virtual model from a 3D scan that can be used in conjunction with the Optitex program for 3D design. This program has functions to control fabric parameters, which affect the visualization of the fit and drape of the garment. Four fabrics, a plain weave cotton, a denim, a light worsted wool, a heavier wool, and a 100% polyester woven material were used to create both virtual models of garments using these materials and then actual garments to compare the results. The virtual system was judged to be not appropriate for the analysis of the fit of protective clothing such as firefighter gear, as these systems cannot address the fit of multi-layer ensembles, and the fabric parameters are not optimized for thicker, stiffer fabrics. In addition, the effectiveness of 3D simulation software (Optitex) was tested in a classroom setting in CO. This study showed positive effects of 3D simulation technology on teaching spatial visualization skills to students and industry practitioners and determined that the technology is an economical and effective tool to produce one layer prototypes without going through the traditional product development process. Work will continue on assessing the potential of this new technology for fit assessment of protective clothing. <br><br><br /> <br /> <i>Application of design methodologies: Universal Design and Collaborative Design</i>n  CO evaluated the design paradigms called Universal Design and Collaborative Design in functional apparel design projects. The seven principles of Universal Design, which has as its motto Design for All, were examined and its practicality and applicability were evaluated in the context of apparel design. Collaborative Design is a user-centered paradigm that invites end-users into the product development process. The effectiveness of this original concept was tested with a performance apparel item (i.e., a sports nursing bra). These new concepts for product development will provide practical guidance for uniform designs such as firefighters turnout gear with direct input from end-users. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Objective 3:<i> Establish a communication and education system for personal protective technology.</i></b> <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Information on Protective Clothing for Pesticide Applicators</b><br> <br /> ASTM and ISO performance specifications standards that were based on laboratory data for approximately 130 fabrics tested at UMES and exposure study data obtained from the European Crop Protection Association were developed. MD interacted with members from ASTM as well as ISO Experts from other countries to resolve issues and revise the draft standards as part of the ballot process. ASTM F2669 - 09, the Standard Performance Specification for Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Pesticides, was approved as an ASTM International Standard in 2009. ISO 27065:2011, the Protective Clothing -- Performance Requirements for Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Liquid Pesticides was approved on April 15, 2011. ASTM Work Item #WK34503, Practice for Conformity Assessment of Protective Clothing Worn by Operators Applying Pesticides, was initiated. The draft was developed and circulated to task group members. The proposed standard is currently being balloted. Once approved, it has the potential of being used to implement performance-based requirements for PPE. <br><br><br /> <br /> MD and NY conducted a wear study to determine the performance of garments with a water repellent finish. University of Maryland Extension Specialist and Cornell Extension Specialist worked with individuals who participated in the wear study. The used garments were tested at UMES. The results provided information that was used to revise the care instructions in the performance specification standard. UMES worked with Safe Use Initiative (SUI) to evaluate the performance of garments with repellent finish used in Portugal, Greece and Poland. A questionnaire developed jointly with SUI and the rapid test developed to determine performance was used for the study. Tests were conducted to compare the results of pesticide penetration through used garments, and a rapid test method was developed to allow users to determine the performance of used garments. The rapid test method has the potential for use as an end of life indicator for PPE with repellent finish. MD also developed a database with PPE requirements on 1,848 pesticide labels. The database includes the following information: active ingredient, EPA registration number, pesticide type, garment, respirator, glove, and other accessories requirements. MD worked with the EPA Health Effects Group to validate and analyze the data.-. A manuscript has been submitted for review so that it can be used by pesticide applicator trainers as part of their training. In addition, the information on gloves will be used for the glove study that is part of the next five-year project. <br><br><br /> <br /> NY continues to address user needs, collect user input, and provide user training and education for educators and workers through certification trainings, exhibits, seminars, workshops, and telephone responses. Expanding audiences include Amish farmers who are interested in low-tech ways to reduce pesticide exposures, orchard and vineyard staff concerned about thermal comfort during the performance of winter tasks, and groups interested in learning at a distance through online resources. The intention is to strengthen partnerships with other educators and agencies to more efficiently develop and disseminate existing and in-process educational materials. <br><br><br /> <br /> <b>Public Online System for Protective Clothing Communities</b><br /> End-user needs assessments, focus groups, ongoing communication, and extensive pilot testing have directly involved PPE clients in the development of online resources. An interactive website, Firefighters - Suit Up!, was developed to increase awareness about how design features relate to fit, function, comfort, and safety. Users can drag-and-drop illustrations of pants, jackets, coveralls, and helmets onto a model to dress the firefighter. The site invites users to compare their choices to those of others and to provide feedback to the website developers. A second website, Pesticide Handlers  Suit Up!, is nearing completion. It will help workers understand PPE statements on pesticide labels and provide information about materials, garment design, donning/doffing procedures, and maintenance. Like the firefighter website, garment illustrations are moved onto a model as the user explores different PPE options and creates different PPE systems based on PPE label statements. The aim is that pesticide handlers will use this website to study for their pesticide applicator certification, to answer PPE questions that arise on the job, and to achieve a safer working environment. It also may be useful to researchers and educators. The goal is to further test and update this website so that it is fully functional in 2013. <br><br> <br /> <br /> <b>Other Outreach Activities</b><br /> Other activities include collaboration between MN and NY (Cornell) to obtain funds through the NSF Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers program. The project, entitled Smart Clothing, Smart Girls: Engineering via Apparel Design, was recommended for funding. Pilot workshops are currently underway. In addition, a Spring 2011 undergraduate course project at MN addressed mobility and fit in the design of disposable coveralls in conjunction with 3M. As a result, 3M hired an undergraduate intern for summer 2011 to re-design garment patterns and conduct an analysis of their existing sizing system. That intern was subsequently hired full-time as the divisions first apparel designer. MNs outreach efforts also included collaboration with the Washington Technology Magnet High School in St. Paul, MN, conducting a one-day field-trip workshop for their summer camp to introduce middle-school girls to wearable technology through hands-on activities. <br /> <br /> The NC 170 website hosted by UMES continues to provide information on the NC-170 project.<br /> <br /> <b>OUTCOMES:</b><br><br /> - User data on the needs of firefighter turnout gear will inform future work about effective design for firefighters.<br><br /> - An improved design for a disposable coverall for pesticide applicators has been developed and tested, and discussions will be underway soon for the manufacture of this coverall.<br><br /> - Protocols have been developed for assessment of the fit of garments using 3D scan images for comparison of sizing systems using actual fit data, for assessing the fit of functional apparel in active positions, and for the use of virtual fit data in fit assessment.<br><br /> - Protocols have been developed for assessing the movement of a garment in 3D relative to the body surface.<br><br /> - Movement data has been collected from a skintight bodysuit and 25 controlled trouser designs to quantify the effects of fit and fabrication on the movement of garments over the body.<br><br /> - A method for categorizing body shapes in the population has been developed.<br><br /> - User data on the needs of firefighters have been collected in preparation of further work on glove and boot design for firefighters.<br><br /> - New prototypes of hospital patient apparel and smart firefighter jackets and gloves were developed and evaluated with users.<br><br /> - Ballistic protective systems appropriate for first responders have been evaluated with and without evaporation assistance through the analysis of textile layering systems.<br><br /> - Based on the results of proof of concept smart firefighter coat and glove testing, a project is in development with a manufacturer to develop a smart firefighter helmet. Additionally, the development of streamlined electronics will make it possible to develop more acceptable, comfortable, and reliable wireless alert systems.<br><br /> - Database with PPE information on labels.<br><br /> - Online interactive modules for training.<br />

Publications

An, S. K., Park, H., Peksoz, S., Branson, D., and Cao, H. Development of estimation model to predict firefighters core temperature from microclimate data. Paper presented at the 2009 annual meeting of International Textile and Apparel Association, Bellevue, WA. (2009, October). <p><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., and Loker, S., (2010). Mass customized target market sizing: Extending the sizing paradigm for improved apparel fit, Design Practice, 2(2), pp. 147-173. <p><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Devine, C., and Erickson, P.D. (2010). Research in body/garment relationships, Proceedings of the International Conference on 3D Body Scanning Technologies, Lugano, Switzerland, Oct. 19-20. Hometrica Consulting, Zurich, Switzerland. www.hometrica.ch. <p><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., (2011). Improving body movement comfort in apparel, book chapter in Comfort in Clothing, Editor Song, G., Woodhead Publishing Limited, Cambridge, UK. <p><br /> <br /> Ashdown, S.P., Editor. (2007) Sizing in Clothing: Developing Effective Sizing Systems for Ready-To-Wear Clothing, Woodhead Publishing Limited, Cambridge, England. <p><br /> <br /> Badrossamay, M R and Sun, G., A Study on Melt Grafting of N-halamine Moieties onto Polyethylene and their Antibacterial Activities. Macromolecules, 2009, V42(6) 1948-1954. <p><br /> Badrossamay, M R and Sun, G., Durable and Rechargeable Biocidal Polypropylene Polymers and Fibers Prepared by Using Reactive Extrusion, Journal of Biomedical Materials Research: Part B - Applied Biomaterials 2009, V. 89B: 93101. <p><br /> Barker, J. and Black, C., (2009). Ballistic vests for police officers: Using clothing comfort theory to analyze personal protective clothing. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education.<br /> . <p><br /> Barker, J., Black, C., and Cloud, R. (2010). Comfort comparison of ballistic vest panels for police officers. Journal of Textile and Apparel Technology and Management, 6 (3). <p><br /> <br /> Barker, J., Boorady, L., Lin, S-H., Lee, Y. A., Esponnette, B., and Ashdown, S. P. (in press). Assessing user needs and perceptions of firefighter PPE. Journal of ASTM International (JAI). <p><br /> <br /> Barker, J.F., Boorady, L.M., and Ashdown, S.P., (2012). The Use and Function of Color in Firefighter Clothing. In Color and Design, Eds. Marilyn DeLong and Barbara Martinson. Berg Publications, scheduled for Spring of 2012.<br /> <p><br /> Baytar, Fatma, Erickson, P. D., and Ashdown, S.P., Investigation of Visual and Physiological Indicators of Comfort and Effectiveness Related to the Design of Firefighter Uniforms, Report submitted Globe Manufacturing, Oct. 2, 2009, addendum Dec. 12, 2009. <p><br /> <br /> Boorady, L.M., Rucker, M., Haise, C. and Ashdown, S.P., (2009) Protective Clothing for Pesticide Applicators: A Multimethod Needs Assessment, JTATM, 6(2), http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu/index.php/JTATM/article/viewFile/646/455 <p><br /> <br /> Boorady, L.M., (2011). Functional Clothing: Principles of Fit. Indian Journal for Fibre and Textile Research (IJFTR) (Invited) <p><br /> <br /> Bye, E., LaBat, K., McKinney, E., and Kim, D.E. (2008). Optimized pattern grading, International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, 20(2), 79-92. <p><br /> <br /> Chen, Q. Zhu, H. Pan, N. Guo, Z., An Alternative Criterion in Heat Transfer Optimization, Proc. R. Soc. A., 2011, 467, 10121028. <p><br /> Choi, K., Park, H., Chung, E. and Peksoz, S. Scientometric Analysis of Research in Smart Clothing: State of the Art and Future Direction, 2011 Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Vol. 6776, 500-508. (2011). <p><br /> Choi, S.Y. and Ashdown, S.P., (2010). 3D body scan analysis of dimensional change in lower body measurements for active body positions. Textile Research Journal 81(1), pp 81-93. <p><br /> <br /> Coffman, C.W., Stone, J.F., Slocum, A., Landers, A.J., Schwab, C.V., Olsen, L, and Lee, S., (2009). Use of engineering controls and personal protective equipment by certified pesticide applicators, Journal of Agricultural Safety and Health 15(4), 311-326. <p><br /> <br /> Dixit, V., Tewari, J., Obendorf, S.K., Fungal Growth Inhibition of Regenerated Cellulose Nanofibrous Membranes Containing Quillaja Saponin, Archive of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 2010, 59:417-423. <p><br /> Dunne, L.E., Gioberto, G., Ramesh, V., and Koo, H., (2011). Measuring Movement of Denim Trousers for Garment-Integrated Sensing Applications. Proc. of the ACM Engineering in Medicine and Biology Conference, Boston. <p><br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., Gioberto, G., and Koo, H., (2011). A Method of Measuring Garment Movement for Wearable Sensing, Proc. of the 15th IEEE International Symposium on Wearable Computers, San Francisco, CA, USA. <p><br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E. (2012) 3D Simulation in the Apparel Design Curriculum. In Duin, Nater, and Anklesaria (Eds.), Cultivating Change in the Academy: 50+ Stories from the Digital Frontlines at the University of Minnesota in 2012 (pp. 37-45). Minneapolis: University of Minnesota. <p><br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., (2010). Beyond the Second Skin: An Experimental Approach to Addressing Garment Style and Fit Variables in the Design of Sensing Garments. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education, 3:3 p109-117. <p><br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., (2010). Optical Bend Sensing for Wearable Goniometry: Exploring the Comfort/Accuracy Tradeoff. Research Journal of Textiles and Apparel.14:4 p73-80. <p><br /> <br /> Dunne, L.E., (2010). Smart Clothing in Practice: Key Design Barriers to Commercialization. Fashion Practice, 2010, 2:1 p41-66. <p><br /> <br /> Esponette, E. and Ashdown, S.P., Three Case Studies to Determine Issues with Fit and Function of Firefighter Turnout Gear. Special Report for Globe Manufacturing, December 23, 2009. <p><br /> <br /> Gioberto, G., and Dunne, L.E. (2012) Garment Positioning and Drift in Garment-Integrated Sensing. Proc. of the International Symposium on Wearable Computers, Newcastle, UK. [5,705; 19%] <p><br /> Hong, KH. Sun, G., Photoactive Antimicrobial Agents/Polyurethane finished leather, Journal of Applied Polymer Science. 2010, Volume 115, Issue 2, Pages: 1138-1144. <p><br /> <br /> Hong, KH. Sun, G., Photoactive antimicrobial PVA hydrogel prepared by freeze-thawing process for wound dressing, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2010,116: 24182424. <p><br /> <br /> Hong, KH. Sun, G., Benzophenone Incorporated Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogels as Photo-induced Antimicrobial Materials, Polymer Engineering and Science, 2010, Vol. 50. 1780-1787. <p><br /> <br /> Hong, KH. Sun, G., Photoactive antibacterial cotton fabrics treated by 3,3,4,4-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride, Carbohydrate Polymers, 2011, 84, 10271032 <p><br /> <br /> Lange, L.E. and Obendorf, S.K., Effect of Plasma Etching on Destructive Adsorption Properties of Polypropylene Fibers Containing Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles, Archive of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 62:185194 (2012). <p><br /> <br /> Lee, S., Obendorf, S.K., Use of Electrospun Nanofiber Web for Protective Textile Materials as Barriers to Liquid Penetration, Textile Research Journal, 2007, 77:696-702. <p><br /> Lee, S., Obendorf, S.K., Transport Properties of Layered Fabric Systems Based on Electrospun Nanofibers, Fibers and Polymers, 2007, 8(5), 501-506. <p><br /> Lee, S., Obendorf, S.K., Barrier Effectiveness and Thermal Comfort of Protective Clothing Materials, Journal of the Textile Institute, 2007, 98:87-97. <p><br /> Lee, S. and Obendorf, S. K., Statistical Modeling of Water Vapor Transport through Woven Fabrics, Textile Research Journal 82:211-219 (2012). <p><br /> <br /> Lin, S., (2010). Exploratory analysis of Chinese-American family caregivers' needs and instructional video on dressing stroke survivors. International Journal of Consumer Studies,34(5), 581-586. <p><br /> <br /> Liu, N., Sun, G., and Zhu, J., Photo-induced self-cleaning functions on 2-anthraquinone carboxylic acid treated cotton fabrics, Journal of Materials Chemistry, 2011, 21, 1538315390 <p><br /> <br /> Morris, K., Park, J., and Sarkar, A. (2011). Collaborative apparel product development: Developing a nursing sports bra. Proceedings of the International Textile and Apparel Association, 68. <p><br /> <br /> Na, H. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). Comparison of 3-D body scan data to quantify upper body postural variation in older and younger women, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 26 (4), 292-307. <p><br /> <br /> Nam, J., Branson, D.H., Ashdown, S.P., Cao, H., and Carnrite, E. (2011, June). Analysis of cross sectional ease values for fit analysis from 3D body scan data taken in working position. International Journal of Human Ecology, 12(1). 87-99. <p><br /> <br /> Obendorf, S.K., Improving Personal Protection through Novel Materials, AATCC Review, 2010, 10, (4): 44-50. <p><br /> Park, J., Kim, D., and Sohn, M. (2011). 3D simulation as an effective instructional tool for enhancing spatial visualization skills in apparel design. International Journal of Technology and Design Education , 21(4), 505-517. <p><br /> <br /> Park, J., Morris, K., and Stannard, C. (2011). Universal design: Theory and empirical applications in apparel design. Proceedings of the International Textile and Apparel Association, 68. <p><br /> <br /> Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K. and Branson, D. Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M), August 2010. <p><br /> Peksoz, S., Cao, H., Park, H., An, S.K., and Branson, D., (2010). Core temperature prediction modeling using a sweating manikin (Full paper). Eighth International Meeting for Manikins and Modeling (8I3M). <p><br /> <br /> Petrova, A. and Ashdown, S.P. (2008). 3-D body scan data analysis: Body size and shape dependence of ease values for pants fit., Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 26(3), 227-252.<br /> Fei, X., Sun, G., Oxidative degradation of organophosphorous pesticides by N-halamine fabrics, Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research. 2009, V 48, 5604-5609 <p><br /> <br /> Rucker, M. and Pan, N. (2009). Evaluation of the Air Permeability, Total Heat Loss, and Radiant Protective Performance of Five Protective Clothing Systems. Report submitted to CAL FIRE. <p><br /> <br /> Rucker, M., (2010). Whats important to doctors and nurses: an attitude survey. American Reusable Textile Association Conference, July 22-23, Quebec City, Quebec <p><br /> <br /> Rucker, M., (2010). Prediction of medical waste from selected hospital statistics. Sustainable Textiles and Medical Protection Conference, June 1-2, Davis, CA <p><br /> <br /> Rucker, M., Brasch, J., and Haise, C., (2011). Textile products and prevention of hospital acquired infections, Journal of Medical Marketing, V 11, 156-164. <p><br /> <br /> Shaw, A. (2008). Field evaluation of protective clothing worn by pesticide applicators in hot climates, International Pest Control, 50(3), 152-155. <p><br /> <br /> Shaw, A., (2010). Global Perspective on Protective Clothing for Pesticide Operators Outlooks on Pest Management, pages 257-260. <p><br /> <br /> Song, H.K. and Ashdown, S. P., (2010). An Exploratory Study of the Validity of Visual Fit Assessment from Three-Dimensional Scans, Clothing and Textiles Research Journal 28(4), pp. 263-278. <p><br /> <br /> Song, H.K., and Ashdown, S.P., (2011). Categorization of Lower Body Shapes Based on Multiple View Analysis, Textile Research Journal 81, (9), pp 914-931. <p><br /> <br /> Tan, K., Obendorf, S.K., Fabrication and evaluation of electrospun nanofibrous antimicrobial nylon 6 membranes, Journal of Membrane Science, 2007, 305:287-298.<br /> <p>Tan, K., Obendorf, S.K., Development of an antimicrobial microporous polyurethane membrane, Journal of Membrane Science, 2007, 289:199209. <p><br /> Tian, M. Zhu S., Pan, N., Measuring the Thermophysical Properties of Porous Fibrous Materials with a New Unsteady-state Method, Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 2011, 107, 395-405. <p><br /> Tian, M. W., Zhu, S. K., and Pan, N., Simulation of Efficiency of Liquid Cooling Garments, Advanced Materials Research, 331, 636-639. <p><br /> <br /> Wang, D., Xu, W. L., and Sun, G., Radical Graft Polymerization of An Allyl Monomer onto Hydrophilic Polymers and Their Antibacterial Nanofiber Membranes, ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, 2011, Vol. 3, 2838-2844. <p><br /> <br /> Wang, D. Liu, N., Xu, WL, Sun, G., Layer-by-layer Structured Nanofiber Membranes with Photo-induced Self-Cleaning Functions, Journal of Physical Chemistry, C, 2011, 115, 68256832 <p><br /> <br /> Woo, D. J. Hansen, N,. Joo, Y. L. and Obendorf, S.K., Photcatalytic Self-Detoxification by Coaxially Electrospun Nanofiber Containing TiO2 Nanoparticles, Textile Research Journal (in press). <p><br /> <br /> Xue, C., Wang, D., Xiang, B., Chiou, B-S., Sun, G., Controlled and high throughput fabrication of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) nanofibers via melt extrusion of immiscible blends, Materials Chemistry and Physics. 2011, V 124, 48-51 <p><br /> <br /> Yin, X., Chen, Q., Pan, N. Feasibility of Perspiration Based Infrared Camouflage, Applied Thermal Engineering, 2011, 36, 32-38. <p><br /> <br /> Zong, Y., and Lee, Y. A., (2011). An exploratory study of integrative approach between 3D body scanning technology and motion capture system in the apparel industry. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 4 (2), 91-101. <p><br />

Impact Statements

1. Improved design of protective coveralls, hospital patient apparel, first responder PPE, and smart firefighter PPE contributes to both the comfort and safety of the workers.
2. Testing protocols for fit and the assessment of sizing of functional apparel provide powerful new tools for design development.
3. Work focused on overcoming the comfort/accuracy tradeoff inherent to garment-integrated sensing is crucial to enabling applications like pervasive healthcare and physiological monitoring.
4. Enhanced physiological and aesthetic attributes of hospital patient apparel contribute to mobility, security, and comfort.
5. A contemporary design paradigm called Universal Design offers the potential to expand the influence and accessibility of functional apparel to a broader range of users.
6. A design tool for collaborative functional clothing product development has been developed that helps designers and product developers to translate scientific findings to consumer products. This will help improve the accessibility of scientific research to the industry community.
7. Apparel design with the use of a special evaporation assistance device has the potential to significantly improve the thermal comfort of PPE.
8. Methods of collecting population data on body shape variation and changes in body measurements in active positions will contribute to the development of effective sizing systems for PPE.
9. Performance-based protective clothing standards and the database with pesticide label information is being considered for revising PPE requirements on pesticide products.
10. Two interactive educational websites have been developed, and four outreach workshops have been conducted.
11. Two interactive educational websites have been developed, and four outreach workshops have been conducted.
12. Approximately 1,700 pesticide handlers received training or educational support on PPE.

Back to top