Textile Testing
Amid the rapid evolution of the global textile supply chain and increasingly stringent sustainability goals, textile quality and safety have become critical concerns for manufacturers, brands, and consumers alike. As a professional third-party analytical testing laboratory, Alfa Chemistry is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive, and standardized textile testing services to clients worldwide. Our services help identify quality risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and accelerate research, development, and certification processes.
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Why Choose Our Textile Testing Services?
Authoritative Accreditation and Comprehensive Standard Coverage
- Our laboratory is accredited under theISO 9001:2015 international quality management system.
- We test in compliance with globally recognized standards, including ISO, AATCC/ASTM (USA), EU REACH regulations, and the OEKO-TEX® certification system.
Advanced Technology Platforms and Strong Analytical Capabilities
- Equipped with high-precision instruments such as GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, SEM, FTIR, DSC/TGA, and XRD.
- Capable of routine testing, trace-level analysis, and complex unknown substance identification.
Reliable Data and Accurate Results
- Adhering to the principles of independent and impartial third-party testing.
- Ensuring result reliability through sample coding, full-process quality control, and standardized operating procedures.
Efficient and Flexible Services with Customization Support
- Offering both standard testing packages and fully customized testing solutions.
- Supporting rush services, data comparison, and tailored research collaboration upon request.
Looking for Reliable Textile Testing Services?
- Material Composition and Fiber Analysis
- Fabric Yarn Testing
- Colorfastness Testing
- Hazardous Substance Testing
- Physical Performance Testing
- Fabric Dimensional Stability Testing
- Fabric Structure Analysis
- Functional Testing
- Care Label Testing and Verification
- Ecological and Sustainability Assessment
- Textile Auxiliaries & Chemical Residue Analysis
- Microstructure & Advanced Analytical Testing (Research Support)
Material Composition and Fiber Analysis
- Identification of natural fibers (cotton, wool, silk), regenerated fibers (viscose, modal), and synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon, spandex, etc.)
- Determination of blend ratios, such as cotton/polyester, cotton/viscose, etc.
- Quantitative analysis based on ISO 1833 series using chemical dissolution, microscopy, and other validated methods
Use Cases: Raw material traceability, supplier material acceptance, brand quality control assessment
Fabric Yarn Testing
- Yarn count, twist per inch, and uniformity assessment
- Yarn tensile strength and elongation at break
- Hairiness analysis (length and distribution)
- Comparative testing between greige yarn and finished yarn
- Fabric weave structure identification and analysis
Colorfastness Testing
- Testing scope includes: colorfastness to washing, rubbing (dry/wet), perspiration, light, dry cleaning, ironing, etc.
- Simulates real-use conditions to evaluate dye stability under various stress factors
- Common standards include: ISO 105 series, AATCC 8, AATCC 61, etc.
Use Cases: Ensures garments maintain color during usage; supports compliance with international market requirements
Hazardous Substance Testing
We provide chemical risk assessment based on global regulatory limits to help clients identify potential hazardous substances:
- Carcinogenic aromatic amines from azo dyes
- Free/formaldehyde content (allergenic potential)
- Heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr6+, etc.)
- Phthalates (plasticizers)
- Perfluorinated compounds (PFOA/PFOS)
- Residual organochlorine/brominated flame retardants and antimicrobial agents
- AP/APEO (alkylphenols and ethoxylates)
- Applicable standards and regulations include but are not limited to: REACH, OEKO-TEX®, ZDHC MRSL, CPSIA, EN 14362-1, etc.
Use Cases: Regulatory compliance for EU, Japan, Korea; pre-evaluation for eco-label certifications like OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
Physical Performance Testing
- Fabric weight, thickness, density, and weave structure
- Tensile strength, tear resistance, abrasion resistance, pilling resistance
- Moisture management, air permeability, water/oil repellency, antistatic properties
- Flame retardancy (LOI, vertical flammability), thermal stability, dimensional stability
- Standards include ISO, ASTM, AATCC, and others to meet both R&D and production control needs.
Use Cases: Apparel fabric durability evaluation; functional textile safety testing; home furnishing quality assurance
Fabric Dimensional Stability Testing
- Dimensional change after home laundering
- Dimensional stability after dry cleaning
- Heat-setting dimensional stability
- Shrinkage control and risk evaluation
Fabric Structure Analysis
- Identification of weave patterns (plain, twill, satin, etc.)
- Warp/weft density measurement
- Multilayer fabric dissection
- Knitting structure and process analysis
- Microscopic morphology observation and image analysis
Functional Testing
- Waterproof, oil-repellent, and stain-resistant testing
- Air permeability and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR)
- Moisture wicking and quick-dry performance
- UV protection (UPF rating)
- Static dissipation performance testing
Care Label Testing and Verification
We verify that the information on care labels is accurate and aligned with regulatory standards and actual fabric performance:
- Washing method verification (matched to real durability)
- Accuracy of symbols and written instructions
- Label durability (resistance to laundering, abrasion, etc.)
Ecological and Sustainability Assessment
We support clients in meeting global sustainability requirements and obtaining eco-certifications:
- Full OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 testing (including Class I for infants)
- ZDHC MRSL compliance testing
- Bluesign®-related chemical screening
- Biodegradability, recycled content ratio, and carbon footprint (LCA)
Use Cases: ESG compliance, sustainability certification preparation, green supply chain evaluation
Textile Auxiliaries & Chemical Residue Analysis
- Analysis of finishing agents (softeners, wrinkle-free agents, antistatic, water repellents, etc.)
- Residual dyes and surfactants
- Identification of unknown additives using GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR, etc.
Use Cases: Process optimization, defect investigation, competitive formulation analysis
Microstructure & Advanced Analytical Testing (Research Support)
For research institutions and innovation teams, we offer in-depth structural and performance testing:
- SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy): fiber surface morphology
- FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared): identification of functional groups and organics
- DSC/TGA: thermal stability, glass transition, decomposition profile
- XRD: crystal structure and crystallinity analysis
Use Cases: Novel material R&D, academic publishing support, patent validation, product failure diagnostics
What Is the Scope of Our Textile Testing Services?
Our textile testing services are widely applied to the following product categories:
Who Can Benefit from Our Textile Testing Solutions?
Garment and fabric manufacturers
For pre-shipment inspection and supplier management
Brand owners and export enterprises
For international regulatory compliance and green label certification
Universities and research institutions
For new material research and project data support
Third-party procurement and quality inspection agencies
For goods acceptance and trade dispute data support
Functional textile users
Functional textile users in specialized industries such as medical, automotive, aerospace, and defense
What Success Stories Can We Share?
Here are three case studies showcasing Textile Testing service conducted for other companies, highlighting the value and impact of our expertise.
Case 1: Functional Sportswear Brand in the U.S. — Wash Fastness and Quick-Dry Performance Verification
Client Background
A California-based sportswear brand focused on producing high-performance quick-dry athletic T-shirts, planning to launch new products in the European market. To comply with export regulations and enhance consumer trust, they required multiple functional tests on the fabric.
Testing Purpose
To verify the fabric's color fastness after multiple washes and its quick-drying ability, supporting product promotion and compliance declarations.
Testing Items
- Wash Fastness (AATCC TM61)
- Sweat Fastness (AATCC TM15)
- Moisture Absorption and Quick-Dry Performance (AATCC 195)
- Surface Structure and Yarn Uniformity Testing
Partial Test Data
- Wash Fastness (Staining): Grade 4–5
- Wash Fastness (Color Change): Grade 5
- Moisture Diffusion Rate: 487% (within 10 minutes)
- Drying Time: 27 minutes (under standard conditions)
Client Feedback
"The report was very professional. We especially appreciated your lab’s meticulous control over test details, which provided important support for our OEKO-TEX® certification application."
Case 2: U.S. Underwear Manufacturer — Fabric Safety and Allergy Risk Assessment
Client Background
A New Jersey-based underwear manufacturer specializing in natural organic cotton products. Due to consumer feedback reporting mild skin irritation after wearing some products, they sought independent third-party testing to confirm raw material safety.
Testing Purpose
To screen for potential harmful chemical residues in the fabric and assess skin contact safety.
Testing Items
- Formaldehyde Content (EPA 3052)
- Heavy Metal Residues (Lead, Cadmium, Chromium)
- pH Testing (AATCC TM81)
- Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) Screening
Partial Test Data
- Free Formaldehyde: Not detected (<5 mg/kg)
- pH Value: 6.3 (close to skin pH)
- Lead:<2 ppm (well below the 10 ppm limit)
- Total Volatile Organics: 26 μg/m³ (compliant with infant textile safety standards)
Client Feedback
"This testing helped us rule out finishing process issues and optimize post-treatment steps. Your lab’s testing is accurate and reliable — highly trustworthy."
Case 3: Large U.S. Department Store Chain — Care Label Verification and Wash Performance Evaluation for Customized Home Textiles
Client Background
A nationwide U.S. department store chain commissioned us to verify the accuracy of care label content and the actual fabric performance before launching their own brand of bedding products, ensuring consumers use and maintain the products correctly.
Testing Purpose
To confirm that care label washing instructions match actual washing performance, minimizing return risks and legal complaints.
Testing Items
- Label Information Verification (symbols and text compliant with ISO standards)
- Dimensional Stability after Multiple Washes (AATCC 135)
- Fabric Pilling Test (ASTM D4970)
- Color Fastness Testing (Light, Wash, and Rubbing)
Partial Test Data
- Dimensional Change Rate after 5 Washes: -1.8% (weft), -2.2% (warp)
- Pilling Grade: 4
- Rubbing Color Fastness: Wet rubbing grade 4, Dry rubbing grade 4–5
- Label Recommendation of "Cold Water Wash + Low Temperature Drying" consistent with actual test results
Client Feedback
"We appreciate the team’s rigorous proofreading and scientific testing of the care labels. This has provided solid assurance before distributing our products across multiple states. The testing reports are very clear and facilitate our internal review process."
How Does the Textile Testing Process Work?
1. Requirement Communication
The client submits testing requirements → Our engineers confirm the testing items, standards, and sample specifications.
2. Sample Delivery & Receipt
Samples can be sent via courier or delivered in person. We ensure the uniqueness and integrity of each sample.
3. Testing & Data Analysis
Samples are processed, tested, and analyzed in strict accordance with the relevant standards.
4. Issuance of Official Test Report
A formal PDF report is provided, with optional spectra, graphs, and analytical interpretation.
5. Follow-up Consultation & Support
If needed, our engineers can offer explanations of the report, address technical questions, and provide suggestions for further testing or project development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between ASTM and ISO textile testing standards, and which should I choose?
A: ASTM standards are primarily used in the North American market, while ISO standards have international applicability. There are subtle differences in test methods, including specimen preparation, test speed, and clamping methods, which may cause slight variations in results. If your products are mainly sold in the US or North America, ASTM standards are recommended; if required by clients or for exports to the EU, Middle East, or Southeast Asia, ISO standards or dual-standard testing are advisable to avoid trade barriers.
Q2: Can your lab conduct hazardous substance testing to meet REACH regulations?
A: Yes. We have the capability to perform testing according to REACH Annex XVII, the latest SVHC candidate list, and other requirements. This includes but is not limited to phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals (such as nickel, lead, cadmium), and organotin compounds. Testing methods follow ISO, EN, or OEKO-TEX standards to ensure data complies with the latest regulatory updates.
Q3: How do you verify the performance of functional textiles and issue certificates?
A: We offer multiple functional testing services:
- Waterproof performance: Tested by AATCC 127 (hydrostatic pressure) or AATCC 42/22 (spray test) to assess water pressure resistance or water repellency;
- Antimicrobial efficacy: Assessed according to AATCC 100 and ISO 20743 to evaluate bacterial inhibition rates and assign antimicrobial levels;
- UV protection: Measured by AATCC 183 or AS/NZS 4399 to determine the UPF value.
Upon completion, we provide test reports and function verification certificates based on client needs, suitable for sales, export, and tender purposes.
Q4: How can I determine if the fabric’s pilling grade meets our standards?
A: Fabric pilling tests usually follow ASTM D4970 (Martindale method) or ISO 12945. After testing, pilling is rated from 1 (worst) to 5 (best) by comparing against standard reference cards. If your company standard requires a minimum pilling grade of 4, the fabric appearance after the specified number of cycles must match or exceed the grade 4 reference card. We can assist in establishing internal standard reference samples for long-term comparison.
Q5: How is the durability testing of care label symbols conducted?
A: Care label durability evaluates the resistance of printed symbols to washing, dry cleaning, rubbing, or ironing processes. Testing typically combines ISO 3758 with AATCC 61 (wash fastness) and AATCC 8 (crocking fastness). After simulating actual washing cycles (e.g., 5 or 10 washes), the symbols are assessed for fading, peeling, or deformation to ensure label information remains legible and compliant throughout the product’s lifecycle.
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