Abstract:

Thermal protective clothing may block the heat source and slower the heat transfer process. Proper test methods contribute to the quality control process and help consumer make right decision for the product. From both material and clothing two perspective, a review is made about the test and evaluation method for thermal protective materials and clothing. Future trends are predicted based on the state of the art. In the future, more attention should be drawn to the heat exposure condition faced by the users, especially for the lower radiant heat exposure. Advanced technologies in the medical and thermal physical fields should be adopted to make accurate and reasonable prediction of the potential skin burn injury. Proper index should be established for the thermal protective clothing performance.

Key words: thermal protective performance, flash fire, test method, flame manikin, prediction of skin burn injury