Overview
EN ISO 12945-2:2020 (Textiles - Determination of fabric propensity to surface pilling, fuzzing or matting - Part 2: Modified Martindale method) is a CEN-endorsed international standard that specifies a laboratory method to evaluate a fabric’s resistance to pilling, fuzzing, and matting. Published as ISO 12945-2:2020 and adopted by CEN as EN ISO 12945-2:2020, this second edition updates and replaces the 2000 version and is intended to produce reproducible rankings of fabric surface-change propensity under accelerated wear.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Defines the method for assessing resistance to pilling, fuzzing and matting using a modified Martindale abrasion tester.
- Principle: A circular test specimen is rubbed in a Lissajous motion over an abradant surface (same fabric or a specified wool abradant) under defined force, and surface changes are evaluated after set stages.
- Apparatus: Uses a modified Martindale abrasion testing machine (based on ISO 12947-1 apparatus) adapted for pilling tests.
- Test motions and terminology:
- Pilling rub: one revolution of the two outer drives of the modified Martindale machine.
- Pilling cycle: a complete translational Lissajous movement comprising 16 pilling rubs.
- Specimen preparation: Includes pretreatment, sampling, number of specimens and marking requirements to ensure comparable results.
- Conditioning: Refers to standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing (see ISO 139).
- Assessment: Visual assessment of pilling, fuzzing and matting is carried out according to ISO 12945-4.
- Results & reporting: Specifies how to record findings, present ratings and include test conditions in the test report.
Applications
- Quality control and incoming/outgoing inspection in textile mills, garment manufacturers, and finishing houses.
- R&D and product development for yarn, fabric and finish optimization to minimize surface defects.
- Comparative performance testing for retailers, brand owners and procurement teams specifying durability and aesthetic criteria.
- Certification bodies and testing laboratories needing standardized methods for consumer claims and compliance.
Who uses this standard
- Textile testing laboratories and technical services
- Fabric and garment manufacturers
- Material scientists and product developers
- Sourcing and quality assurance teams
- Standards writers and compliance officers
Related standards
- ISO 12945-4 - Assessment of pilling, fuzzing and matting by visual analysis
- ISO 12947-1 - Martindale abrasion testing apparatus
- ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
Keywords: EN ISO 12945-2, ISO 12945-2:2020, modified Martindale method, pilling test, fabric pilling, fuzzing, matting, textile testing, Martindale abrasion.
