What are the Factors that affect color fastness?
Color fastness is a term used in the textile industry to describe the resistance of a fabric against color fading or color transfer.
We can check the color fastness of a fabric by running a test. The test methods that we usually use for Crocking/Rubbing are called "BS EN ISO 105 X12" and "AATCC 8".
That affect color fastness:
1、Material composition affects a great deal for color fastness. By nature, some materials are always better than others when color fastness is concerned.
For instance, the color fastness of Polyester and Nylon fabrics are normally one grade better than Denim's and Canvas's. Therefore, the common standard for Denim, Canvas, Print Textiles, Velvet Textiles and Genuine or Suede Leather is set at a relatively lower level, which is only Dry: 3.0 and Wet: 2.0, as people in the industry understand and expect that it is difficult for these materials to achieve a high color fastness standard.
As such, during product development, when these fabrics are involved, it is better to pay special attention to make sure that the material suppliers would handle the fabrics carefully. Otherwise, you might end up with a product that will stain clothes.
2、Color also affects color fastness. Materials in darker colors tends to have lower color fastness than lighter color materials.
Also, due to the chemical properties of the dye, there are a few colors that are now widely known to be more problematic, such as Red, Navy Blue & Black.
3、Other factors that affect color fastness include the specific dye used in the dyeing process, the dyeing process itself, any additives, fixatives or softeners used, and the way of washing of the fabrics etc.
2018-12-28 17:24