Color Fastness to Washing

Color fastness to washing is the one of the most important test conducted in textile industry to know the strength of the color. By using this test we can assure that color using on the product will withstand for a particular time frame. So, this is very important test.

There are 2 methods used for conducting this test.
1. ISO 105 C06
2. AATCC 61

TEST EQUIPMENTS. 

• Landrometer
• Standard reference detergents without optical Brighteners like ECE or AATCC 1993 specified by the standards
• Multifibre fabric
• Stainless steel balls
• Beach & Beach activators
• Grade 3 water

PROCEDURE:

• Specimens are cut into 4x10 cms size (ISO) and 4x15cms size (AATCC)
• Attach the multifiber along with the specimen
• A wash liquor is prepared using Grade 3 water, the appropriate detergent and additives. The detergents that are specified are the ECE standard reference detergent WOB and AATCC Standard Reference Detergent 1993 WOB
• The Composite specimen and multifibre is placed on the wash wheel pot containing wash liquor and stainless steel balls as may be required. The wash wheel may be run for the approximate time duration.
• The specimens are removed, rinsed and dried in a air temperature not exceeding 60 degree.

RESULT AND INTERPRETATIONS:

The results are evaluated in three ways.

1. Change in shade - Loss of color or tone as comparing to the original 
2. Extend of staining in Multifibre
3. Self staining if any

Standard grey scales are used for the assessment where grades between 1 and 5 are given
in half steps. Assessment needs to be done with clean grey scales using masks and under
standardized lighting conditions in a dark room.