Textile and Apparel Science
Innovative research is pursued by the Human Ecology Department's textile science and apparel design faculty to enhance human comfort and protection through clothing and textile solutions for items ranging from protective gear, uniforms, and sportswear to clothing for disabled persons. This research reflects the critical function textiles and apparel have as our nearest physical environment. Researchers in the department have distinguished themselves in the fields of fiber science with a focus on areas such as material response under various thermal hazards, combustion of textile materials, odour transfer, standards development and functional apparel design.
Jane Batcheller, FSO
Jane Batcheller's research interests fall within three main areas: Protective Clothing and Equipment, Textile Analysis and Care, and Archeological Textiles. She is the Principal Investigator of the Protective Clothing and Equipment Research Facility (PCERF) and the supervisor of the Textile Analysis Service (TAS).
Patricia Dolez, Associate Professor
Dr. Dolez's research focuses on protective clothing and personal protective equipment, in particular in the context of occupational safety and health. She has a special interest in nanotechnologies, smart materials, natural fibres, and recycled textiles.
Rachel McQueen, Professor
Rachel McQueen's primary research focus relates to the development and retention of odour in textiles. This involves the development of methods to examine the growth of skin microflora within textiles, interaction of odorous molecules with textile fibres and sensory detection of body odour emanating from fabrics
David Torvi, Adjunct Professor
Prof. Torvi and his students conduct numerical and experimental research aimed at improving the knowledge of heat transfer in materials under high heat flux conditions. His research has been funded by NSERC, CFI and the Canadian Space Agency.