Electrostatic potentials generated on the chest by wearing different types of fabrics

ABSTRACT

The electrostatic potentials [EP] generated on the surface of the upper part of the human body by different types of fabrics are studied. 40 healthy volunteers were divided into 5 equal groups. In the control group, the upper half of the body was bare during the test periods. Each of the other 4 groups dressed shirts of different fabrics 100 percent polyester, 100 percent cotton, 50/50 percent polyester/cotton and 100 percent wool. EP were measured one hour after dressing the shirt. EP could not be detected from cotton or wool shirts, or from controls. Polyethylene shirts recorded the highest EP followed by the polyester/cotton mix. The EP generated during the day were higher than at night probably due to the higher temperature prevailing during the day. The polyester-containing shirts may have injurious effect on the chest. Friction between polyester shirt and the skin generates electric charges, and the skin is positively charged. A series of induced EP is generated in the intrathoracic organs. Opposite sign charges on the opposing surfaces of lung and heart create an "electrostatic field" across them, which may cause respiratory and cardiac derangement