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D6012-03 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D6012-03, reapproved in 2021, is the Standard Test Method for Determination of Resistance of Leather to (Bleeding) Color Stain Transfer. This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6012 and has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense. It was developed from Federal Test Method Standard No. 311 Method 3021.2 in cooperation with the U.S. Army Natick Research Development and Engineering Center and the Defense Personnel Support Center.
📜 Scope and Significance of the Test
This test method covers the determination of whether leather bleeds when in intimate contact with wet surfaces, as indicated by staining produced on wet cloth. Bleed resistance is considered an important characteristic for leather used in lined and unlined items that may come in contact with water. This standard does not apply to wet blue. The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard, with SI units provided for information only. The standard also references ASTM D1610 for conditioning and addresses user safety responsibilities.
⚙️ Apparatus and Test Specimen Specifications
The apparatus includes one or more assemblies consisting of a flat glass or plastic square with a suitable weight placed on top, having a combined weight of 100±5 g. A suitable assembly can be a plastic or glass plate and a 1 fluid oz (29 cc) jar with lead shot or steel balls. A flat-bottomed container of sufficient size to accommodate up to 15 specimens is required, with dimensions 12 in. (300 mm) long, 9 in. (230 mm) wide, and 4 in. (100 mm) high found suitable. A forced circulating-air oven capable of maintaining 38±2°C, a balance, and bleached cotton sheeting cut into 2 in. (51.6 mm) squares are also needed.
The test specimen shall be a square of leather 1.0 by 1.0 in. (25 by 25 mm). Unless otherwise specified in the material specification, one specimen from each sample unit shall be tested. Conditioning should follow Practice D1610.
| 🛠️ Apparatus Component | 📏 Specification | 🎯 Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Assembly | 100 g | ±5 g |
| Oven Temperature | 38°C (100.4°F) | ±2°C (±3.6°F) |
| Container Size | 12 x 9 x 4 in. (300 x 230 x 100 mm) | For up to 15 specimens |
| Bleached Cotton Sheeting | 4 pieces of 2 in. squares | 51.6 mm each |
| 🟦 Parameter | 📐 Value | 📏 Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Specimen Dimensions | 1.0 x 1.0 in. | 25 x 25 mm |
| Number of Determinations | 1 per sample unit | Unless specified otherwise |
| Conditioning Standard | ASTM D1610 | Practice for conditioning leather |
📊 Test Conditions and Key Parameters
The test is conducted in a forced circulating-air oven at 38±2°C. The leather specimen is placed in intimate contact with wet bleached cotton sheeting under a weight of 100±5 g. The assembly is then placed in the oven for a specified period to allow for color transfer. The staining on the cloth is evaluated to determine the degree of bleeding.
Ensure thorough conditioning of leather specimens per ASTM D1610 to achieve accurate and repeatable results.
This test method is specifically not applicable to wet blue leather; it is intended for finished leather only.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is bleeding in leather?
Bleeding is defined as the transfer of color from a finished leather sample onto or into another medium, such as wet cloth, during contact.
💡 How is the test conducted?
A 1.0 x 1.0 in. leather specimen is placed in contact with wet bleached cotton sheeting under a weight of 100±5 g and exposed to an oven temperature of 38±2°C. The staining on the cloth indicates bleeding resistance.
⚡ What are the critical conditions for the test?
Key conditions include oven temperature (38±2°C), weight (100±5 g), and specimen size (1.0 x 1.0 in.). The test uses four squares of 2 in. bleached cotton sheeting.
📌 Why is bleed resistance important