Application of sustainable phase change materials in motorcycle helmet for heat-stress reduction

Abstract

In tropical regions and hot climates, heat-stress due to wearing helmet while riding a motorcycle is a phenomenon that is commonly experienced by the motorcyclist. The interior of the motorcyclist’s head with a helmet can quickly rise to a temperature of 37 to 38 °C, which leads to substantial discomfort due to heat-stress. Approaches such as putting extra perforations on the helmet to increase ventilation can be incorporated. However, this affects the integrity and the safety aspects of the helmet. This research has investigated the novel application of innovative fabrics consisting of paraffinic Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in the design of an interlayer between the scalp and the helmet lining of a motorcycle helmet to control the temperature inside the helmet. The materials used in this research were nontoxic, low cost, lightweight and easy to use, hence, sustainable. It has been established that there is a scope to reduce the temperature by 3.8 °C inside the helmet using PCM materials as a textile liner. The PCM nonwoven material absorbed 17.8 W of heat, which is enough to reduce the heat-stress within the helmet.

Keywords:

• Phase change material
• motorcycle helmet
• heat-stress
• thermophysiological comfort
• textile liner

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.