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CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 28.4-M91 (2013): Standard Test Method for Colourfastness to Perspiration
A comprehensive guide to the Canadian standard for evaluating textile dye resistance to perspiration-induced colour change and staining
Scope and Purpose
The standard CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 28.4-M91 (2013), part of the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) 4.2 series on textile test methods, specifies a test method for determining the colourfastness of textile fabrics, yarns, and filaments to perspiration. This method simulates the effects of both acidic and alkaline perspiration on dyed or printed textiles, evaluating two key aspects: the change in colour of the specimen and the degree of staining transferred to adjacent materials.
This standard is widely referenced by Canadian textile manufacturers, importers, and regulatory bodies to ensure product quality and consumer safety. It aligns closely with international methods such as ISO 105-E04 and AATCC 15, but includes specific requirements for test apparatus, reagent concentrations, and conditioning that are tailored to Canadian industry practices.
Technical Requirements
Apparatus and Materials
- Perspirometer or equivalent device capable of applying a constant pressure of 12.5 kPa ± 0.9 kPa to the test specimen stack.
- Oven capable of maintaining 37°C ± 2°C with forced air circulation.
- Test specimen: 40 mm × 100 mm fabric piece, conditioned at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 5% relative humidity for at least 4 hours.
- Adjacent fabrics: Multifibre strip (e.g., DW type or equivalent) containing wool, acrylic, polyester, nylon, cotton, and acetate (or diacetate) to assess staining.
- Grey scales: For colour change (e.g., ISO 105-A02) and for staining (e.g., ISO 105-A03).
Composition of Artificial Perspiration Solutions
Two solutions are prepared: an acidic solution (pH = 5.5) and an alkaline solution (pH = 8.0). The standard specifies precise amounts of each ingredient per litre of distilled water.
| Component | Acidic Solution (g/L) | Alkaline Solution (g/L) |
|---|---|---|
| L-Histidine monohydrochloride | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Sodium chloride (NaCl) | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na₂HPO₄) | — | 5.0 |
| Sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH₂PO₄) | 2.2 | — |
| Adjust pH with | 0.1 N HCl | 0.1 N NaOH |
Tip: Solutions must be freshly prepared and used within 24 hours. Verify pH immediately before use; discard if pH deviates by more than 0.1 units.
Test Procedure
- Preparation: Cut a 40 mm × 100 mm test specimen and a multifibre strip of equal dimensions. Hem or trim edges to avoid fraying.
- Immersion: Place the specimen and multifibre strip together, specimen uppermost, and immerse them in the perspiration solution at room temperature for 30 minutes. Gently squeeze to ensure thorough wetting.
- Assembly: Remove the stack, lightly squeeze to remove excess solution (maintaining a pick-up of about 100% by weight). Place the stack between glass or acrylic plates.
- Loading: Insert the plate stack into the perspirometer, apply a pressure of 12.5 kPa ± 0.9 kPa, and tighten the frame.
- Incubation: Place the loaded device in the oven at 37°C ± 2°C for 4 hours ± 5 minutes. Use acidic solution in one set, alkaline in another.
- Drying: After incubation, remove the stack, separate the specimen from the multifibre strip, and dry them individually in air at not more than 60°C.
- Evaluation: Rate the colour change of the specimen using the grey scale for colour change (rating 1–5). Rate the staining on each fibre of the multifibre strip using the grey scale for staining (rating 1–5). Report ratings separately for acidic and alkaline tests.
Success: Consistent results are obtained when all steps are strictly followed, especially the pH and temperature control. A rating of 4 or higher is typically considered acceptable for most apparel applications.
Compliance and Reporting Notes
Reports must include the standard reference (CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 28.4-M91 (2013)), the type of perspiration solution (acidic or alkaline), the grey scale ratings for colour change and each fibre type stained, and any deviations from the test method. Laboratories seeking accreditation under the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) must demonstrate proficiency in this method.
Warning: The alkaline solution may cause degrade certain fibre types (e.g., wool, silk) over extended exposure. Interpret staining ratings carefully—some fading or colour change may be due to fibre damage rather than poor dye fastness.
The standard also suggests that for products with more than one colour or multiple fibre types, each colour or material should be tested separately. Additionally, if the product is intended for use with only acidic or only alkaline perspiration (e.g., swimwear), testing with only the relevant solution may be specified by the purchaser.
Safety: L-Histidine is a fine powder that may cause respiratory irritation. Weigh it in a fume hood. Perspiration solutions should be handled with gloves and disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of testing with both acidic and alkaline perspiration solutions?
A: Human perspiration can be acidic (pH ~5.5) or alkaline (pH ~8.0) depending on diet, metabolism, and skin conditions. Testing under both conditions ensures that the colourfastness of the textile is adequate for the full range of actual human perspiration scenarios.
A: Human perspiration can be acidic (pH ~5.5) or alkaline (pH ~8.0) depending on diet, metabolism, and skin conditions. Testing under both conditions ensures that the colourfastness of the textile is adequate for the full range of actual human perspiration scenarios.
Q: Can this method be applied to leather or nonwoven materials?
A: The standard is intended for textiles (woven, knitted, and nonwoven fabrics that are dyed or printed). For leather, other methods such as ISO 11641 are more appropriate. However, the method has been adapted for some nonwovens if the material can withstand the handling and pressure without damage.
A: The standard is intended for textiles (woven, knitted, and nonwoven fabrics that are dyed or printed). For leather, other methods such as ISO 11641 are more appropriate. However, the method has been adapted for some nonwovens if the material can withstand the handling and pressure without damage.
Q: How is the staining rating interpreted when the multifibre strip shows uneven staining?
A: The grey scale rating should be based on the most heavily stained area of each fibre type. If the staining is not uniform, note that observation in the report. For acceptance, the lowest rating among all fibres is usually considered the overall staining performance.
A: The grey scale rating should be based on the most heavily stained area of each fibre type. If the staining is not uniform, note that observation in the report. For acceptance, the lowest rating among all fibres is usually considered the overall staining performance.
Q: What is the status of the 1991 edition with 2013 reaffirmation?
A: CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 28.4-M91 (2013) was originally published in 1991 and reaffirmed without technical changes in 2013. It remains the current version until withdrawn or superseded. Endorsers and regulators still accept this version as the authoritative method for colourfastness to perspiration testing in Canada.
A: CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 28.4-M91 (2013) was originally published in 1991 and reaffirmed without technical changes in 2013. It remains the current version until withdrawn or superseded. Endorsers and regulators still accept this version as the authoritative method for colourfastness to perspiration testing in Canada.
Last updated: 2026