Definition
Color fastness refers to the resistance of a dyed or printed textile to various external influences that may cause a change in color. These influences include light exposure, mechanical stress from rubbing, moisture, perspiration, washing, and chemical agents. Color fastness is evaluated according to standardized test methods and classified into fastness grades, where higher values indicate greater resistance. It is an essential quality characteristic of textiles and depends on the dye used, the fiber material, and the dyeing process.
Use in the textile industry
In the textile industry, color fastness is a central criterion in the selection of dyes and finishing processes, particularly for apparel, technical textiles, and home textiles subject to increased stress. For outdoor and sportswear, light fastness and perspiration fastness are the primary considerations, while washing fastness and rubbing fastness are especially relevant for bed linen and garments. Testing and declaration of color fastness is a prerequisite in many product segments for meeting quality standards and customer requirements.
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