Evaluation Methodology for the Quality of Sunshade Fabrics under Application Conditions

Abstract

To objectively evaluate the lifecycle of functional properties of sunshade fabrics and other protective shades under application conditions and for their more complete declaration, a need for supplementing the existing standards dealing with this topic, as well as a need for further development of test methods has been established. This is the reason why the paper proposes a methodology of the systematic approach to the whole evaluation of the lifecycle of the protective and functional efficiency of textile materials. The evaluation process includes: specification of the properties relevant to the evaluation of the functionality and lifecycle of materials, treatment of test specimens under simulation conditions of practical application, selection of the most appropriate test methods and procedures of defined characteristics as well as testing and assessment. The treatments include exposure of specimens to the action of sun‘s radiation and chemically and physically active substances in the atmosphere of the environment, simulation of repeated sprinkling with water and simulation of shade care by multiple laundering. The changes in relevant material characteristics occurring during treatments are essential to make a final evaluation of the lifecycle of functional performance characteristics of materials during the application of shades. The proposed scheme of the objective evaluation is used for the assessment of the lifecycle of differently finished polyester fabrics intended for the manufacture of sunshades, and it has proved satisfactory and fully acceptable.