PFAS Free 멤브레인이 적용된 아웃도어 투습방수 재킷의 투습도, 수증기 증발저항 및 인체 착용 시 생리·심리 반응

Abstract

Pre- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly used for water repellency in outdoor clothing, do not nat- urally degrade and can accumulate in the human body through environmental pathways. PFAS-free water-repellent tech- nologies are now commercially available in outdoor apparel. This study examined the physical and physiological characteristics of PFAS and PFAS-free outdoor jackets using a thermal manikin and human wear trials. First, using a thermal manikin (Newton, 20-zones), we evaluated the physical properties of seven commercially available waterproof and breathable jackets. Four jackets incorporated PFAS membranes (Saloman, Florence, Kolon, and K2_Old), while three used PFAS-free membranes (Patagonia, Arcteryx, and K2_New). Next, four of these jackets (one PFAS and three PFAS-free) were selected for human wear trials. Eight male subjects wore each jacket in trials consisting of 10-min rest, 30-min exercise, and 20-min recovery. Despite differences in jacket mass (276 to 717 g), no marked differences were found in thermal insulation (Icl: 0.300–0.388 clo) and water vapor resistance (Re,T: 0.048–0.057 kPa·m2/W) among the seven jackets. The human wear trials also showed no significant differences in body temperature, heart rate, and subjective perceptions among the four jacket con- ditions. In summary, there were no notable differences in the physical or physiological characteristics of commercially avail- able PFAS and PFAS-free outdoor jackets. These findings suggest that PFAS-free jackets may not negatively affect wearing comfort when comparing to outdoor jackets with PFAS membrane. In addition, effective ventilation design remains essential for both PFAS and PFAS-free outdoor jackets, as high humidity can accumulate inside jackets during exercise.