What is EN ISO 105-E12:2016?

In the textile industry, there are many different standards and testing methods to evaluate the properties of fabrics. One such standard is EN ISO 105-E12:2016. This standard specifically focuses on the colorfastness to rubbing of textiles. It provides a comprehensive guideline for testing and assessing how well a fabric resists color transfer when subjected to rubbing or abrasion.

Importance of Colorfastness to Rubbing

Colorfastness to rubbing is an essential property that determines the durability and quality of a fabric. When a fabric comes into contact with other surfaces during everyday use, such as clothing rubbing against furniture or skin, color transfer can occur. This may result in stains, discoloration, or fading, leading to significant product defects. EN ISO 105-E12:2016 helps manufacturers ensure that their textiles meet acceptable levels of colorfastness to rubbing, preventing potential issues for end-users.

The Testing Procedure

EN ISO 105-E12:2016 outlines a specific testing procedure to assess colorfastness to rubbing. The fabric sample is typically mounted onto a rubbing fastness tester and subjected to a specified number of rubs with a standardized rubbing cloth or under a specific load. Following the rubbing process, the fabric is evaluated visually or instrumentally to determine any color transfer or staining. Based on the test results, the fabric is assigned a rating on a scale indicating its level of colorfastness to rubbing.

Interpreting the Test Results

The test results obtained from EN ISO 105-E12:2016 provide crucial information about the colorfastness to rubbing of a fabric. Depending on the application requirements, different industries may have varying acceptance criteria. Generally, a higher rating indicates better resistance to color transfer, with the highest rating of 5 being excellent. Manufacturers can use these ratings to compare fabrics, select suitable materials for specific purposes, and improve the overall quality of their products.