Investigation of color differences of cotton, polyester and polyester/cotton blend fabrics after wash fastness tests according to their fabric cover factors

Abstract

This paper deals with assessment of the color difference values obtained for 100% cotton, 100% polyester, and polyester/cotton blend fabric samples with different fabric constructional parameters after applying ISO 105 C06 (B1M) wash fastness test with reference (ECE) and two different domestic laundry detergents. The color difference values between the control (not washed) and washed fabrics were evaluated. Color differences changed according to the laundry detergents used, the fiber types and the cover factors of the fabrics. Compactness of the woven structures governed the results in relation with the fiber type. The color differences obtained by using the two detergents were found to be dependent on the constructional properties of the fabrics and the characteristics of the wash liquors. Considerable differences between the performances of the reference (ECE) detergent and commercial detergents were obtained especially at the wash fastness tests of cotton fabrics.