A novel apparatus capable of simulating an environment down to -40℃, and its application in investigating moisture transport through fabric in such conditions is described - paper presented to the 83rd World Conference of the Textile Institute Atmospheric temperature can be as low as -72℃ in certain parts of the earth. Clothing obviously is essential for survival in such a climate. The ideal clothing should keep the wearer warm while allowing perspiration or sweat from the wearer to transmit freely through the clothing layers, since the perspiration or sweat accumulated in garments may result in cold stress due to either the reduced insulation value of wet clothing or evaporation of the accumulated sweat after cessation of work or exercise. In cold environmental conditions where accumulation of sweat in clothing is difficult to avoid, it is preferable that the sweat accumulate as far from the skin as possible. This will reduce heat lost by evaporation on the skin during the drying phase and will reduce the accompanying thermal discomfort during the subsequent rest period with wet clothing.
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