Colorfastness Testing

Gray Scale for Staining This scale is used in colorfastness tests for evaluating staining on undyed textiles. The scale consists of pairs of nominally white and gray color chips each representing a difference in color or contrast (shade and strength) corresponding to a numerical grade for staining. The fastness grades of the scale steps and the corresponding color difference and tolerances are determined by the CIE L*a*b* (CIELAB) formula. Fastness grade 5 is represented on the scale by two identical white reference chips mounted side by side, having reflectance of not less than 85 percent. Fastness grades 4.5 to 1, inclusive, are represented by a reference white chip identical with those used for grade 5 paired with similar but neutral gray chips. Scale features 3 languages; English, Spanish, and Chinese. Specific tolerances and instructions for use of the scale are given in AATCC Evaluation Procedure 2. Order No. 8360

Gray Scale for Color Change This scale is used in visual evaluation of the changes in color of textiles resulting from colorfastness tests. The colorfastness grades of the scale steps and the corresponding total color differences and tolerances used are determined by the CIE L*a*b* (CIELAB) formula. Colorfastness grade 5 is represented on the scale by two reference chips mounted side by side, neutral gray in color and having a Y tristimulus value of 12 ± 0.2. Colorfastness grades 4.5 to 1, inclusive, are represented by reference chips like those used in Step 5 paired with lighter neutral gray chips of similar dimensions and gloss. Scale features 3 languages; English, Spanish, and Chinese. Specific tolerances and instructions for use of the scale are given in AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1. Order No. 8359

AATCC Gray Scale Viewing Stand This stand can be used with the Gray Scale for Color Change and the Gray Scale for Staining in accordance with AATCC Evaluation Procedures 1 and 2. The stand is set at a 45 degree angle as specified and is painted to match Munsell N7. Four magnets are included with the stand to assist in positioning the scales and samples. Order No. 8342 Magnets for Gray Scale Viewing Stand A pack of 4 magnets to assist in positioning the scales and samples. Order No. 8341