ISO 12947-2:2016

Overview

ISO 12947-2:2016 - part of the Martindale series - specifies the procedure for determining the specimen breakdown (end-point) when measuring the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale method. The standard applies to most textile fabrics (including nonwovens) but excludes coated or laminated fabrics and fabrics specified to have a low abrasion wear life. Where apparatus requirements are needed, ISO 12947-1 is referenced; coated surfaces should be tested using parts of ISO 5470.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and applicability: Applies to woven, knitted, pile and other textile fabrics and nonwovens; not for coated fabrics.
• End-point definition (specimen breakdown): Determined by inspection at fixed intervals based on thread breakage or worn-off area (partially or fully worn, with “fully worn off” defined as >75% exposed ground surface).
• Test motion and mounting: Circular specimens are rubbed against a standard abrasive medium in a translational Lissajous motion while the specimen holder also rotates; specimens <500 g/m² use foam backing, specimens ≥500 g/m² are tested without foam.
• Load parameters: Two standard effective masses are specified: (795 ± 7) g (nominal 12 kPa) for workwear/ upholstery/technical fabrics, and (595 ± 7) g (nominal 9 kPa) for apparel/household textiles.
• Apparatus and aids: Uses apparatus per ISO 12947-1, a 2.5 ± 0.1 mm template hole (≈4.9 mm² viewing area), and a magnifier (typically ×8–10) to detect broken threads.
• Sampling, conditioning and preparation: Minimum three specimens (more for patterned fabrics), conditioning in the standard atmosphere (ISO 139) - typically at least 18 hours - and sampling distances from edges/selvedges are specified.
• Reporting: Number of rubs to the inspection interval and the upper limit before breakdown are recorded per the standard’s reporting requirements.

Practical applications and users

ISO 12947-2 is used for:

• Quality control and acceptance testing in textile mills and finishing plants
• Product development and material selection for apparel, upholstery, workwear, bedding and technical textiles
• Independent test laboratories and certification bodies performing Martindale abrasion testing
• R&D teams assessing surface durability, pile retention and wear life of fabrics

This standard helps manufacturers and specifiers compare abrasion performance, define technical specifications, and document test results for regulatory or contractual purposes.

Related standards

• ISO 12947-1 - Martindale apparatus (test equipment requirements)
• ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
• ISO 5470 - Abrasion testing for coated fabrics (use when testing coatings/laminates)
• Other referenced documents: ISO 105‑A02 (grey scale), ISO 3572, ISO 8388, ISO 9092, ISO 23733

Keywords: ISO 12947-2, Martindale method, abrasion resistance, specimen breakdown, textile testing, Martindale abrasion, ISO 12947.