Objective
This standard is used to determine the ultraviolet protection factor (= UPF) of textiles and similar materials (e.g. protective films) in a new condition without real usage.
The test is suitable for
- Clothing textiles
- Similar materials
Your benefit as a customer
- Consumer information with the specification of the UPF in its new condition
- Material optimisation during development
- Securing the product on the market
- Clear product information
Description
At Hohenstein, the UV protection is tested in the form of the UPF (=ultraviolet protection factor) of textiles. The UPF enables an assessment of the UV protection of textiles taking into account the spectral composition of sunlight and human skin sensitivity.
The test criteria to determine the UPF are characterised as follows:
Test:
- New, unstretched and dry materials are tested. The basis is the solar spectrum for Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- For critical observation reasons, the calculation from AS/MZS 4399 is used to evaluate the material. The material is then classified on the basis of ASTM D 6603 using the levels UPF 15, 30, 50 or 50+.
- The test of other states of use as per AATCC TM 183 and the remaining requirements of ASTM D 6603 are not applicable.
Certification, and thus the issue of the quality label, is not possible as the requirements for the labelling process as per ASTM D 6603 are not covered in full.