ASTM D6544

The significance of this practice is that cloth, labeled as UV-protective, which will ultimately be submitted for UV transmittance testing will be in a state that simulates their condition at the end of two years of normal seasonal use. Therefore, the UV-protection level ultimately placed on a label estimates the maximum UV transmittance of the garment fabric during a two-year life cycle.

1. Scope

1.1 This practice covers standardized exposures to laundering, simulated sunlight, and chlorinated pool water to which cloth, labeled as ultraviolet-(UV) protective, must be exposed prior to testing for UV transmission.

1.2 This practice leads to measurement of the residual level of UV-protection in fabrics or garments labeled as sun- or UV-protective, after exposure to conditions that relate to about two years of seasonal use. The UV transmission measurements may be done in accordance with AATCC Test Method 183 using fabrics prepared in accordance with this practice. This measurement may be used in support of a label statement regarding UV protection.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents

AATCC Test Methods and Documents
AATCC183 Transmittance or Blocking of Erythemally Weighted Ultraviolet Radiation through Fabrics
ASTM Standards
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
D2905 Practice for Statements on Number of Specimens for Textiles
D3938 Guide for Determining or Confirming Care Instructions for Apparel and Other Textile Products
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process

Index Terms

care labeling; chlorinated pool water effects; laundering effects; simulated sunlight exposure effects; sunbathing; swimwear; UV-protective fabrics; UV transmission testing; ICS Number Code 13.340.10 (Protective clothing); 59.080.30 (Textile fabrics)

Citing ASTM Standards

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