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D3819-02 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Definitions
ASTM D3819-02 establishes the standard performance specification for men’s and boys’ woven pajama fabrics. The specification is applicable to fabrics composed of any single textile fiber or mixture thereof. According to the standard, pajamas are defined as a “two piece ensemble consisting of a top and a bottom generally used for, but not limited to, night wear.” For broader textile terminology, users are directed to ASTM D123. These requirements apply to both the warp (length) and weft (width) directions of the fabric.
✅ Key Flexibility: D3819 allows for a wide variety of fiber types and constructions, making it a versatile tool for qualifying plain, twill, satin, or specialty weaves for sleepwear applications.
🧪 Specification Requirements and Test Methods
The performance specification mandates minimum requirements across physical properties, dimensional stability, and colorfastness. Table 1 outlines the specific test methods cited in the standard and the typical performance levels required to meet the specification.
🟦 Table 1: Core Performance Requirements per ASTM D3819-02
| 🔬 Property | 📏 Test Method | 🎯 Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Breaking Force (Grab Test) | ASTM D5034 | Warp: 110 N (25 lbf) min / Fill: 89 N (20 lbf) min |
| Tear Resistance (Elmendorf) | ASTM D1424 | 3.1 N (0.7 lbf) min |
| Resistance to Yarn Slippage | ASTM D434 | 6 mm (1/4 in.) max |
| Dimensional Change (Home Laundering) | AATCC 135 / 96 | ± 3.0 % max |
| Colorfastness to Light (40 hr) | AATCC 16 (Option 3) | Class 4 min |
| Colorfastness to Crocking (Dry / Wet) | AATCC 8 / 116 | Class 4 / Class 3 min |
| Colorfastness to Washing | AATCC 61 (2A) | Shade Change: Class 4 / Staining: Class 3 |
| Colorfastness to Perspiration | AATCC 15 | Shade Change: Class 4 / Staining: Class 3 |
| Colorfastness to Burnt Gas Fumes | AATCC 23 | Class 4 min |
| Colorfastness to Non-Chlorine / Chlorine Bleach | AATCC 172 / 188 | Class 4 min |
| Flammability | 16 CFR 1610 | Class 1 (Normal) |
📝 Evaluation Procedures: Color change is rated using the Gray Scale for Color Change (AATCC EP 1), while staining is rated using the Gray Scale for Staining (AATCC EP 2) or the AATCC Chromatic Transference Scale (AATCC EP 3).
⚙️ Test Speed Selection and Procedure Notes
The standard references multiple methods for tear resistance. ASTM D2261 and D2262 outline the Tongue (Single Rip) procedure using constant-rate-of-extension (CRE) and constant-rate-of-traverse (CRT) machines, respectively. The selection of the specific method should be based on the fabric construction and available laboratory equipment. Similarly, colorfastness to crocking can be assessed using the Standard AATCC Crockmeter (AATCC 8) or the Rotary Vertical Crockmeter (AATCC 116), depending on the fabric structure.
Sampling: Practice D2905 is cited for determining the number of specimens required for textile testing. Additionally, Military Standard MIL-STD-105D is referenced for inspection by attributes, providing an established framework for lot acceptance testing.
🔥 Safety and Compliance: A safety caveat in the standard requires users to establish appropriate safety and health practices before conducting the referenced test methods. Pajama fabrics must meet the flammability requirements of 16 CFR Part 1610, with a Class 1 classification being the minimum acceptable standard for the U.S. market.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What types of fabrics are covered by ASTM D3819?
This standard covers woven pajama fabrics for men and boys. It is applicable regardless of the fiber composition, including 100% synthetics, 100% natural fibers, or any blend. It does not cover knitted pajama fabrics, which are covered by a different ASTM specification.
💡 Which test method does D3819 specify for evaluating tearing strength?
The standard provides several options for tear testing: ASTM D1424 (Falling-Pendulum/Elmendorf Apparatus), ASTM D2261 (Tongue/CRE), and ASTM D2262 (Tongue/CRT). The Elmendorf method is most common for typical pajama fabric weights.
⚡ What is the difference between AATCC 96 and AATCC 135 for dimensional stability?
AATCC 96 is a general method for dimensional changes in woven and knitted textiles, while AATCC 135 specifically addresses automatic home laundering of durable press fabrics. ASTM D3819 references both, and the applicable method depends on whether the fabric has a durable press finish.
📌 How important is the Gray Scale for evaluating colorfastness results?
The Gray Scale for Color Change (AATCC EP 1) and Gray Scale for Staining (AATCC EP 2) are the definitive tools for rating colorfastness in this specification. Achieving a Class 4 or higher rating is critical for compliance, as it indicates minimal color change or staining during testing.