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CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 22-2004 (2013): Standard Test Method for Colour Fastness to Perspiration
A comprehensive guide to assessing textile colour fastness to perspiration under the Canadian General Standards Board method
Introduction
Colour fastness to perspiration is a critical performance attribute for textile products that come into direct contact with the skin. The standard CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 22-2004 (2013), developed by the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB), specifies a test method to evaluate the resistance of textile colours to both acid and alkaline perspiration. Widely referenced in Canadian procurement, apparel specifications, and quality assurance programs, this method ensures that garments maintain their aesthetic and functional properties under real-life conditions of human sweat. This article provides an in-depth review of the standard’s scope, technical requirements, implementation considerations, and compliance recommendations.
1. Scope
The standard applies to textiles of all fibre types — natural, synthetic, and blends — in any form (e.g., woven, knitted, nonwoven). It assesses colour change of the specimen and staining of adjacent fabrics under the influence of artificial perspiration solutions. Two solutions are specified: acid (pH 5.5) and alkaline (pH 8.0), representing the range of human perspiration pH. The method is primarily intended for quality control in manufacturing, product certification, and regulatory compliance within Canada.
2. Technical Requirements
2.1 Test Solutions
The artificial perspiration solutions are prepared from L-histidine monohydrochloride, sodium chloride, and phosphate buffers. The composition must be precise to ensure reproducible results.
| Component | Acid solution (g/L) | Alkaline solution (g/L) |
|---|---|---|
| L-Histidine monohydrochloride | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Sodium chloride (NaCl) | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate dihydrate (NaH₂PO₄·2H₂O) | 2.2 | — |
| Disodium hydrogen orthophosphate dihydrate (Na₂HPO₄·2H₂O) | — | 2.5 |
| pH (adjusted with dilute acetic acid or NaOH) | 5.5 ± 0.2 | 8.0 ± 0.2 |
Solutions must be freshly prepared and used within 24 hours to avoid degradation.
2.2 Apparatus and Materials
The test requires a perspirometer capable of applying a load of 12.5 kPa, an oven maintained at 37 ± 2 °C, and grey scales complying with ISO 105-A02 (change in colour) and ISO 105-A03 (staining). Multi-fibre adjacent fabric (e.g., style D02) is mandatory.
2.3 Specimen Preparation and Procedure
Specimens of 40 mm × 100 mm are cut and immersed in the prepared perspiration solution at a liquor ratio of 20:1 (solution:specimen mass). After thorough wetting, the composite is placed in the perspirometer and held under the standard load for 4 hours at 37 °C. The specimen is then dried separately at not more than 60 °C. Evaluation of colour change and staining is performed under standard lighting (D65, 0/45 geometry) using the respective grey scales.
2.4 Evaluation and Rating
Results are reported as numerical ratings from 5 (excellent: no change or staining) to 1 (poor: severe change or staining). Ratings are assigned separately for acid and alkaline perspiration. The final report includes both values and, if applicable, a combined assessment.
3. Implementation Highlights
3.1 Harmonization with International Standards
CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 22-2004 (2013) is technically equivalent to ISO 105-E04:2013. Laboratories already operating to the ISO version can readily adapt to the Canadian standard. Nonetheless, the CGSB edition may include specific notes on sample selection, interpretation of results for certain fibre blends, or climatic conditioning relevant to Canadian use.
Tip: When testing for compliance with Canadian textile specifications, always cite the CGSB standard number. Many Canadian buyers and regulators require explicit adherence to CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 22-2004 (2013).
3.2 Critical Control Points
pH verification of the test solutions before each use is essential. An out-of-spec pH can produce misleading results. Additionally, the oven must be calibrated to ensure uniform temperature distribution, and the loading device should be checked periodically.
Warning: Bacteria and fungi can grow in the perspiration solutions, especially the alkaline formulation. Always prepare solutions immediately before use and discard any remaining volume. Do not store or reuse solutions.
3.3 Specimen Conditioning
Although the standard does not explicitly require specimen preconditioning at standard atmosphere (21 °C, 65% RH), it is recommended to condition specimens to obtain stable baseline moisture content. This practice improves repeatability across test batches.
4. Compliance Notes
4.1 Laboratory Accreditation
Testing laboratories should hold ISO 17025 accreditation to ensure competence and traceability. Regular participation in interlaboratory proficiency testing programmes is advised. Grey scales must be certified and replaced periodically to maintain accuracy.
Good Practice: Establish a routine calibration schedule for the perspirometer and oven. Document all observations, including solution pH, temperature uniformity, and load application, to meet quality system requirements.
4.2 Reporting Requirements
A complete test report must include the standard reference, identification of the textile, the type(s) of perspiration tested, and the rating for colour change and staining for each adjacent fibre. Any deviation from the standard procedure must be noted.
Critical: The standard was reaffirmed in 2013, and users must monitor CGSB announcements for any reaffirmation or revision updates. Using a superseded version may invalidate compliance claims in regulated procurement.
4.3 Limitations and Best Use
This method evaluates colour fastness to perspiration only; it does not cover fibre strength loss or other physical changes. The artificial solutions reproduce typical physiological conditions, but results may not precisely predict performance in extreme or prolonged exposure to sweat. The method is nonetheless a robust tool for comparative testing and specification verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 22-2004 (2013) differ from ISO 105-E04?
A: The technical content is identical. The CGSB version is adopted as a Canadian national standard and may include editorial revisions, annexes, or guidance notes specific to Canadian textile applications. For regulatory compliance within Canada, the CGSB standard is the official reference.
A: The technical content is identical. The CGSB version is adopted as a Canadian national standard and may include editorial revisions, annexes, or guidance notes specific to Canadian textile applications. For regulatory compliance within Canada, the CGSB standard is the official reference.
Q: Why are both acid and alkaline tests performed?
A: Human perspiration pH varies with diet, metabolism, and activity. Acid perspiration (pH 5.5) is most common, but some individuals produce alkaline perspiration (pH 8.0) due to physiological factors. Testing both conditions ensures robust colour fastness across diverse use environments.
A: Human perspiration pH varies with diet, metabolism, and activity. Acid perspiration (pH 5.5) is most common, but some individuals produce alkaline perspiration (pH 8.0) due to physiological factors. Testing both conditions ensures robust colour fastness across diverse use environments.
Q: How many test specimens are needed for a representative result?
A: At least two specimens per perspiration type (acid and alkaline) are required. For multicolour or patterned textiles, additional specimens may be necessary to assess each colour separately. The test laboratory should follow internal quality procedures to determine the appropriate number.
A: At least two specimens per perspiration type (acid and alkaline) are required. For multicolour or patterned textiles, additional specimens may be necessary to assess each colour separately. The test laboratory should follow internal quality procedures to determine the appropriate number.
Q: Can the method be applied to non-textile materials such as leather?
A: No, this standard is exclusively for textiles. Colour fastness to perspiration for leather is covered by separate standards, e.g., ISO 11644 or equivalent national methods.
A: No, this standard is exclusively for textiles. Colour fastness to perspiration for leather is covered by separate standards, e.g., ISO 11644 or equivalent national methods.
First published: 2004. Reaffirmed: 2013. This article was last updated in 2026.