ISO 11092:2026

Overview

ISO 11092:2026 - Textiles - Physiological effects - Measurement of thermal and water-vapour resistance under steady-state conditions (sweating guarded-hotplate test) is an international standard developed by ISO for determining the ability of textile materials and assemblies to resist heat transfer and moisture transport. This method, commonly referred to as the “sweating guarded-hotplate test” or “skin model,” provides standardized procedures to measure both thermal resistance (Rct) and water-vapour resistance (Ret) in materials used in clothing, bedding, upholstery, and other textile applications.

The standard emphasizes laboratory conditions with steady-state measurements, allowing textile manufacturers and researchers to evaluate the heat and moisture management properties of various fabrics, including multilayer constructions, films, foams, coatings, leather, and composites.

Key Topics

• Thermal Resistance (Rct): Measures how well a textile limits the transfer of heat. Higher thermal resistance indicates better insulation.
• Water-vapour Resistance (Ret): Quantifies the resistance of textiles to water vapour passing through, informing on breathability and moisture management.
• Sweating Guarded-Hotplate Method: Simulates heat and vapour transfer processes which occur close to human skin, ensuring assessment reflects physiological effects.
• Apparatus Requirements: Specifies criteria for plate size, temperature control, humidity, and airflow to maintain repeatable testing conditions.
• Specimen Preparation: Standardizes conditioning and handling of samples, distinguishing methods for thin (<5 mm) and thick or uneven materials (quilted, filled, or swelling-prone textiles).
• Test Report: Outlines essential data and reporting requirements, including description of test materials, test conditions, and calculated mean values for Rct and Ret.
• Accuracy and Precision: Offers guidance on repeatability, reproducibility, and the importance of apparatus calibration.

Applications

ISO 11092:2026 plays a crucial role in the development, quality control, and verification of textile products where thermal insulation and breathability are important for end-user comfort and safety. Key applications include:

• Clothing Design: Supports functional apparel creation, such as sportswear, outdoor gear, workwear, and uniforms, by providing data on heat retention and moisture permeability.
• Bedding and Quilts: Assesses comfort properties in sleeping bags, duvets, and mattresses by measuring how effectively materials manage body heat and sweat during sleep.
• Technical Textiles: Informs the suitability of materials for upholstery, automotive interiors, and protective gear where thermal and vapour management impacts performance.
• Material Research: Facilitates the comparison and development of innovative textiles (e.g., multilayer systems, high-tech coatings, membranes) for improved physiological comfort.
• Consumer Safety and Regulation: Assures manufacturers and regulatory bodies that products meet internationally recognized thermal and moisture transfer benchmarks.

Related Standards

Several standards complement or reference ISO 11092:2026 for textile testing and physiological comfort evaluation:

• ISO 3696 – Water for analytical laboratory use: Ensures the specified water quality is used in testing.
• ISO 5085 – Textiles - Determination of thermal resistance of battings: Focuses on specific material types.
• ISO 9237 – Determination of air permeability of textile fabrics: Related to breathability alongside vapour resistance.
• ISO 139 – Conditioning and testing atmospheres for textiles: Relevant for sample preparation and conditioning requirements.
• ISO 5725 – Accuracy (trueness and precision) of measurement methods and results: Referenced for repeatability and reproducibility in interlaboratory trials.

By standardizing the procedures for measuring thermal resistance and water-vapour resistance, ISO 11092:2026 boosts textile innovation and supports manufacturers in delivering consistent, high-performance fabrics across global markets.