Prepare Solutions
Alkaline solution at pH 8.0 and acid solution at pH 5.5, both with L-histidine and sodium chloride.
Knit Fabric Manufacturer Since 2009 · China
TEST METHOD · ISO 105-E04
Colour Fastness to Perspiration ISO 105-E04
ISO 105-E04 shows whether a fabric changes colour or stains other fabrics in artificial sweat, tested in an alkaline and an acid solution. The US equivalent is AATCC 15.
Specimens cut from the bulk lot.
Standard
ISO 105-E04
US equivalent
AATCC 15
Solutions
Alkaline pH 8.0 · acid pH 5.5
Grading
Grey scales, 1–5
01
What This Test Measures
A fabric and multifibre composite is soaked in artificial perspiration made with L-histidine, held under pressure at body temperature, dried and graded for colour change and staining. It matters most for T-shirts, sportswear and underwear.
02
How We Run It in Our Lab
Our technicians follow a written work instruction for this method.
Alkaline and acid tests run in parallel on separate specimens.
Soak
Each 40 × 100 mm composite is soaked at a liquor ratio of 50:1 for 30 minutes, then excess solution is removed.
Hold Under Pressure
Specimens are held between resin plates under 12.5 kPa at 37 ± 2 °C for 4 hours.
Dry and Grade
Dried at no more than 60 °C. Graded with the ISO 105-A02 grey scale for colour change and A03 for staining (AATCC EP1/EP2 for AATCC methods), under the agreed light source in a light booth, by at least two technicians.
03
Test Conditions
Key settings. Write the method and procedure in your specification.
| Parameter | Setting |
|---|---|
| Solutions | Alkaline pH 8.0 and acid pH 5.5 (AATCC 15: one acid solution) |
| Liquor ratio | 50:1, 30 minutes at room temperature |
| Pressure and incubation | 12.5 kPa; 37 ± 2 °C for 4 hours |
| Grading | Grey scales, 1–5 |
| Equivalent methods | AATCC 15 (US) · GB/T 3922 (China). Compare methods → |
04
Results for Your Order
Ask us for results for the selected fabric, shade and test conditions. Acceptance values for your order are agreed in writing.
05
Writing This Test into Your Specification
Ask for Both Solutions
Specify alkaline and acid results; one fabric can behave differently in each.
Separate Change and Staining
Give one grade for colour change and one for staining.
Think About End Use
For sportswear and underwear, perspiration fastness matters as much as washing fastness.
06
Questions About ISO 105-E04
Why are there two perspiration solutions in ISO 105-E04?
Sweat can be mildly alkaline or acid. ISO 105-E04 tests both, at pH 8.0 and pH 5.5. AATCC 15 uses one acid solution.
How long is the perspiration test?
Soaking takes 30 minutes, then 4 hours at 37 °C under 12.5 kPa, followed by drying and grading.
Which garments need perspiration fastness?
Garments worn close to the skin or during exercise: T-shirts, sportswear, underwear and nightwear.