AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change

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The AATCC Gray Scale aligns with international colorfastness evaluation protocols, including:

• AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1 (Grey Scale for Stain and Color Change)
• ISO 105-A02 (Grey Scale for Assessing Change in Color)
• JIS L 0801 (Japanese Industrial Standard for Gray Scale Assessment)
• GB/T 250 (China’s National Standard for Gray Scale for Color Change)

These standards harmonize grading criteria, enabling cross-border trade and regulatory compliance.

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The Gray Scale functions as a visual benchmarking tool:

1. Sample Preparation: Test specimens (e.g., dyed fabrics) are exposed to controlled conditions (e.g., xenon arc light, laundering cycles).
2. Comparison: The faded specimen is placed adjacent to the Gray Scale chips under standardized lighting (e.g., D65 illuminant, 6500K).
3. Rating: Users assign a grade based on the closest match:
   • 1 = severe color change (e.g., visible fading or staining)
   • 5 = no perceptible difference
   • Half-steps (e.g., 4-5) allow nuanced evaluation for borderline cases.

Test Principle & Applications

The Gray Scale is used in controlled laboratory environments to:

• Lightfastness Testing: Assess dye durability after accelerated aging (e.g., AATCC 16E, ISO 105-B02).
• Wash Fastness: Evaluate color retention and cross-staining after laundering (AATCC 61, ISO 105-C06).
• Perspiration/Rub Fastness: Measure color stability under simulated wear (AATCC 8, 15).

Key Applications:

• Textile & Apparel: Quality control for fashion brands and dyehouses.
• Automotive/Upholstery: Ensuring color consistency in vehicle interiors.
• Home Furnishings: Verifying fade resistance in carpets, curtains, and bedding.

The AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change is a cornerstone of colorfastness testing, offering a reliable, standardized, and user-friendly solution for industries demanding precision in product performance and durability.