A manual of health science ... / by Andrew Wilson.

  • Wilson, Andrew, 1852-1912.
Date:
1890
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A manual of health science ... / by Andrew Wilson. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    and linen absorb freely; silk ranking above the latter materials in this respect. The teachings of experience have, therefore, selected wool or flannel as the material most suitable for wearing next the skin, and as that which most effectively protects the body from chill. It is also found that wool or flannel allows air to pass through it much more readily than does linen, and this property is one of no small value in assisting the ready drying of such materials. In connection with the absorption of moisture by fabrics, the subject of protection against wet naturally falls to be considered. Waterproof clothing is that commonly used for this purpose ; but objections to waterproof articles have been commonly entertained owing to their impermeability, and to the consequent retention of perspiration they ex- hibit, and liability to cold they engender. These objections can only apply to cases where the waterproof clothing is worn for long periods, or where the underclothing is of un- suitable character as regards the absorption of the skin moisture. The French soldier is not allowed to use a waterproof on account of the alleged unsanitary nature of these garments ; but the waterproof clothing constructed by Messrs. Mandleberg & Co., of Manchester, obviates the objections to the use of this material, in that the manufac- tures in question are ingeniously ventilated. The liability of different kinds of clothing to become readily ignited varies greatly. Wool and silk char but do not blaze, whilst cotton and linen readily take fire. To render dress materials uninflammable, and to prevent their sudden ignition, is often a necessary and advantageous pro- cedure where liability to the accident of ignition exists. Tungstate of soda, which is unaffected by the ironing and dressing to which fabrics may be subjected, is perhaps the most preferable substance. A fireproof starch, invented by Mr. Nicoll, contains tungstate of soda, and can be used in dressing the fabrics to be protected. For underclothing^ wool is the material which, on all M