Nanomaterials-Based Moisture Transport Pathway Treatments towards Textiles with Improved Moisture Management and Comfort

Special Operations Force operators are often subjected to physically challenging conditions under varying environmental extremes. Efficient body temperature regulation, proper heat stree management, as well as adequate soldier comfort level are keys to enhanced warfighter performance and continued mission success. While textile fabrics used in US military uniforms have multiple favorable properties, there is a need for textile treatments that bestow directional control of moisture management transport pathways for proper moisture management. End users would further benefit if these treatments: i) do not substantially affect moisture vapor transport (retained fabric breathability); ii) allow efficient conductive heat dissipation (high thermal conductivity); iii) exhibit high compatibility with human skin, minimizing concerns of dermal irritation upon prolonged contact; iv) are durable under relevant extreme conditions, and; v) do not add significant cost or bulk to the treated textile fabric. In response to the US SOCOMs call for a detailed feasibility study, an exhaustive evaluation of the different materials and methods associated with generating moisture transport pathways in textile fabrics is proposed herein. Specifically, we propose to apply nanomaterials-based modifications onto fabrics, guided by multiple successful strategies (materials and patterns) that effectively move or wick fluids through narrow channels in microfluidics, towards improved textiles.