Understanding IS 2455:1967: Determining color fastness of textile materials to perspiration
In the textile industry, it is important to ensure the quality and durability of fabrics. One critical aspect of determining the fabric quality is its color fastness, which refers to the resistance of the fabric's color to fading or running. The IS 2455:1967 standard specifies the method for determining the color fastness of textile materials to perspiration. Established by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this standard ensures textiles maintain their aesthetic and functional qualities when exposed to sweat.
Ensuring a fabric’s color fastness to perspiration
Perspiration is a common phenomenon that affects textile materials, especially in clothing. Sweat can cause color to fade or transfer from the fabric, leading to unsightly stains and diminished garment appearance. Assessing the fabric’s color fastness to perspiration is essential to ensure that textile products remain vibrant and durable even with regular use. This property is particularly important for sportswear, underwear, and other garments that come into direct contact with the skin.
Overview of IS 2455:1967
The IS 2455:1967 standard outlines a systematic procedure for evaluating the color fastness of textiles to perspiration. The test involves exposing textile samples to synthetic perspiration solutions and assessing any changes in color. The procedure is designed to simulate real-life conditions and provide a reliable measure of how the fabric will perform in actual use.
Procedure
- Preparing the sample: For this procedure, multiple samples of the fabric are cut to a specified size, usually 10 cm x 4 cm, to ensure accuracy.
- Preparing the perspiration solution: Two types of synthetic perspiration solutions are prepared—acidic and alkaline. The acidic solution typically contains lactic acid, sodium chloride, and disodium hydrogen phosphate, while the alkaline solution includes sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, and sodium phosphate.
- Soaking: The textile samples are soaked in the prepared perspiration solutions for a specified duration, usually 30 minutes. This step ensures that the solution penetrates the fabric thoroughly.
- Drying and fixing: After soaking, the samples are placed between two plates and subjected to a fixed pressure, simulating the pressure exerted by the human body. The assembly is then dried at a specified temperature, usually 37°C, for four hours.
- Assessing the samples: Once dried, the samples are assessed for color changes using grey scales or with the aid of instrumental color measurement devices. The degree of color change is rated on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 indicates poor color fastness and 5 indicates excellent color fastness.
Meeting quality and safety standards
Compliance with IS 2455:1967 is vital for manufacturers and suppliers in the textile industry. It ensures that the products meet quality standards and are safe for consumer use. Fabrics that do not adhere to these standards may suffer from color fading or staining, leading to customer dissatisfaction and potential reputational damage for brands.
The IS 2455:1967 standard helps maintain the quality and durability of textile materials. By providing a reliable method for testing color fastness to perspiration, it helps manufacturers produce high-quality garments that withstand the rigors of everyday wear. For consumers, it ensures their clothes remain vibrant and appealing, even after being exposed to sweat. Adherence to this standard helps manufacturers deliver lasting quality and satisfaction in the textile industry.