Respiratory and Microclimate Temperatures Within the Parka Hood in Extreme Cold

Book excerpt: The standard Air Force arctic clothing was worn to determine if it provided adequate head protection in extremely cold temperatures. Subjects were exposed to -62C for 40 to 50 minutes in an environmental chamber. Possible respiratory problems and frostbite of the cheeks and nose were the primary concern. Subjects resting or exercising experienced no respiratory or frostbite problems. Air in the hood rapidly approached ambient conditions, because of the expulsive nature of expiration and the strong convective air movement. Exercise increased the microclimate temperatures in the hood. The existing hood design was found to provide adequate head protection for AF personnel at more extreme temperatures than are normally encountered in the Arctic.