Design of Super-Insulating, Bio-Based Textile Structures Adapted to Canadian Winter Conditions – Validation with Human Participants

PROJECT COST:

285 175 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

129 175 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

Many Canadian workers are exposed to extreme cold and wind conditions. The performance of cold-protective clothing currently available on the market is generally evaluated under laboratory conditions that are not representative of real-world use and users. Preliminary results have shown that wind, temperature, and relative humidity play a key role in reducing thermal insulation, notably through the compression of insulating structures. In addition, user-related factors such as sex and age may significantly influence the effectiveness of these garments.

This project, led by Professor Ludwig Vinches at the Université de Montréal, aims to develop highly insulating textile assemblies for cold and windy environmental conditions. These assemblies, made from 100% bio-based fibers and advanced materials, will need to meet specific requirements, including maintaining their structural integrity under high wind conditions. The project will also consider user characteristics and parameters (such as sex and age) that are critical to the design of cold-protective clothing.

This project represents the fourth year of the PRIMA-funded project (R23-13-001) launched in 2022. The companies Eko-Terre and Logistik Unicorp will benefit from new business opportunities in the technical textile industry and strengthen their competitive position by offering highly insulating materials. The benefits for Québec will mainly include enhanced R&D positioning for the project partners and the creation of new jobs.

Additionally, this fourth year will provide training opportunities for five students: a postdoctoral fellow, two doctoral students, a master’s student, and an undergraduate intern.