Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of textiles
AATCC TM 183-2010
EN 13758-1
AS/NZS 4399
Equipment
The Solar Light’s versatile SPF-290AS UV Transmittance / Sunscreen Protection Factor Analyzer is an integrated UV spectrophotometer to determine the SPF values of textiles and clothing materials.
Covering both the UVB and UVA spectral regions, the system automatically scans from 290 to 400 nm, accumulating and storing data at intervals of 1, 2, or 5nm.
The monochromatic protection factor (MPF) is determined for each of the selected wavelengths, and used to calculate the SPF value, using solar irradiance and erythemal constants that are programmed in the software.
Principle
The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of textiles is tested according to the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4399, European standard EN 13758-1, or the American Standard AATCC TM 183.
UPF is an indication of the UV protection provided by textiles in view of the spectral composition of the sunlight and the human skin sensitivity.
- The Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS 4399) simulates the solar spectrum of Melbourne, Australia.
- The European EN 13758-1 and the American AATCC TM 183 standards apply the solar spectrum of Albuquerque, USA, where the solar radiation is similar to that of Southern Europe.
Depending on the UPF level that is measured, the textiles are graded from "Minimum" (UPF 15), over "Good" (UPF 30) to "Excellent" (UPF 50, 50+).
Specific Testing Conditions
Specific conditions concerning our testing reports