Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Which other conditions are used to test a dye's fastness?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
dye
Examples of anthraquinone pigments.
In addition to lightfastness, which is assessed on a scale of 8, a dye's fastness is tested against several other environmental and chemical agents to ensure the coloration remains permanent during use and processing.1
These tests, which are measured on a scale of 5, include resistance to the following conditions:
- Water1
- Bleach1
- Acid1
- Alkali1
- Detergent solution1
- Perspiration1
These standards are developed by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization, the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), the Europäisch-Continentale Echtheitsconvention (ECE), and the Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC). The final selection of a dye often involves a compromise between the required fastness standards for the textile's intended use and the cost of the dyes.12