Prediction of single-layer fabric air permeability by statistical modeling

Historically, it has been difficult to directly obtain accurate air permeability measurements of open-structured textile fabrics. Although measurements can be made using a nonstandard pressure differential between the two fabric surfaces, this technique may not be reliable. An alternative method of determining permeability of open-structured fabrics by extrapolation from measurements of multiple layers is used on a limited basis with instruments that may not have a full range of air permeability measurement capability. This research evaluates the accuracy of this method through comparison of statistically predicted values with actual measurements of fabrics whose permeabilities lie within the measurement range specified in the standard test method.