Effects of Coating Process Variables on the Thermal Conductivity of Cotton Knitted Fabrics Coated with Phase-Change Materials

Gurumurthy. B. Ramaiah; Metusal  Meja; Daniel  Asfaw; Robel  Legese; Dr.Tolera  A Negawo

doi:10.20372/tvet-ftveti-v2i2.89

Authors

Gurumurthy. B. Ramaiah Department of TextileTechnology, Faculty of Textile and Apparel Fashion, Federal TVTI,
Metusal Meja Department of TextileTechnology, Faculty of Textile and Apparel Fashion, Federal TVTI,
Daniel Asfaw Department of Textile Technology, Faculty of Textile and Apparel Fashion, Federal TVTI,
Robel Legese Department of Textile Technology, Faculty of Textile and Apparel Fashion, Federal TVTI,
Dr.Tolera A Negawo Department of Textile Technology, Faculty of Textile and Apparel Fashion, Federal TVTI,

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20372/tvet-ftveti-v2i2.89

Keywords:

Thermal Conductivity, Phase Change Material, Kulkote, Spray Coating, Screen printing, Viscosity

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) exhibit the ability to absorb, store, and release latent heat during phase transitions, making them ideal for enhancing thermal comfort and energy efficiency. In this study, PCM was applied to knitted cotton fabrics to develop
thermo-regulated textile samples. Screen-printing techniques were employed for coating, with viscosity (56–62 centistokes) and number of strokes used as independent variables. The processing parameters were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on a Central Composite Design (CCD) in Design Expert Software. After coating, the samples were cured and dried in an oven. Thermal conductivity, the primary response variable, was measured using Lee’s disk method. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy data analyzed chemical functional groups in the coating material, and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) determined the melting point of the samples. Optimization results revealed the best thermal conductivity of 0.033 W/mK at a viscosity of approximately 61.4 centistokes and 5.9 strokes. For fabric processors seeking to enhance thermal performance without compromising fabric flexibility or other critical properties, this optimal condition provides a valuable guideline. Overall, the incorporation of PCM into textile structures through optimized screen-printing significantly improves thermal regulation, offering promising applications in smart and energy-efficient clothing.