Transient Sweat Rate Calculation from Humidity Measurements Under Clothing
Abstract
This study demonstrates a method for monitoring evaporative sweat rates (EvapSR) during steady and intermittent activities. The method was validated on a sweating thermal manikin wearing a long sleeved shirt and trousers (standard military battle dress uniform) instrumented with temperature-humidity sensors under the clothing. The manikin tests were at steady state conditions in an environmental chamber at 35 degrees C/50%RH and wind speed ranging between 0.36 and 1.94 m.s-1. The manikin was adjusted to produce sweat rates between 0 and 150 g.m-2. h-1. EvapSR was estimated from weighted measured skin wettedness and the maximum evaporative rate, and compared to the manikin's sweat rate. This technique was further validated with humans engaged in intermittent work. Overall, this is a simple promising approach for estimating EvapSR. The method is non-invasive and enables monitoring and assessment for safety, health and hydration status of industrial and military personnel engaged in a wide range of situations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA459878
Entities
People
- Julio A. Gonzalez
- Larry G. Berglund
- Laurie A. Blanchard
- Miyo Yokota
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine