What is BS 3424-12 – Testing of coated fabrics about?
BS 3424-12 is the 12th part of an international standard that deals with accelerated ageing tests for coated fabrics.
BS 3424-12 describe methods of assessing the resistance of coated fabrics to deterioration by accelerated ageing. It describes the test method D i.e., the ageing test for nitrocellulose- type coatings.
Who is BS 3424-12 - Testing of coated fabrics for?
BS 3424-12 on accelerated ageing tests on coated fabrics is useful for:
- Manufacturers of coated fabrics
- Product development entities
- Quality control entities
- Textile manufacturer
- Clothing industries
- Textile testing laboratories
- Regulatory authorities
Why should you use BS 3424-12 - Testing of coated fabrics?
The ageing of coated fabrics consists in subjecting test pieces, with previously determined physical properties, to a controlled deteriorating influence for a known period. The selection of the most appropriate test method(s), ageing time and temperature will depend on the purpose of the test and the type of coated fabric.
BS 3424-12 sets a framework to measure the deterioration of coated fabrics may be strength properties, flexing, blocking or any other desired physical or chemical property. The physical properties can be investigated, by the selection of appropriate methods of testing.
BS 3424-12 covers the PVC-coated fabrics, nitrocellulose-coated fabrics may lose plasticizer by volatilization, and in time this will have an adverse effect on the flexibility of the coating. This is particularly relevant in book-binding, which is the main end-use for this type of product, where long-term flexibility at the hinge is required.
BS 3424-12 attempts to simulate and accelerate this situation, and hence the end-point is based on visual inspection rather than mass loss.
BS 3424-12 involves simulations that reproduce the normal conditions of utilisation as closely as possible, but where the parameters are set so that ageing occurs more rapidly.
