High Thermal Conductivity Textiles

Personal cooling system technology was first utilized by NASA for the Apollo Astronauts to prevent heat buildup under their space suits. Extensive plastic tubing is used to circulate water for body heat removal. The undergarment is quite binding and restrictive and inefficient in the removal of body heat to the external heat exchanger. The proposed innovation is the creation of a new thermally conductive textile fiber using nanocomposite engineering. The immediate opportunity is reduced contact surface required for the plastic tubing. The loops can be spaced further apart greatly enhancing comfort and mobility. Improved rate of heat transfer and more uniform temperature distribution will provide the benefit of reduced water circulation needs, leading to an opportunity for reduction in the weight and bulk of the space suit and improved astronaut mobility. Reduced support systems, lower launch weight, greater personal comfort and extended activity time are expected.