The GMW 14296 standard, developed by General Motors , defines a test method for determining the resistance of plastic rolled products (PRG) and leather covering materials to the effects of perspiration. This test method is applicable to both plastic rolled products and leather covering materials.
Plastic rolled products (PRG) consist of two basic construction types: reinforced and unreinforced. Some plastic rolled products are flexible and non-adhesive. Others are combined to be compatible with plastics, fabrics, and coated genuine leather. Reinforced plastic rolled material consists of a synthetic polymer leather such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic olefin, or polyurethane reinforced with a textile fabric. Plastic rolled materials are used for seats, door/console armrests, instrument panels, door inserts, gear shift guards, and steering column covers.
With this test method, color losses and deteriorations due to the effect of sweat on vehicle upholstery materials are detected. During this test, a test sample, along with standard fiber fabrics, is immersed in distilled water or an alkaline solution that mimics artificial sweat. Afterwards, this sample assembly is compressed between two glass surfaces under a standard pressure and kept at a certain temperature for a certain period of time. At the end of the period, the test sample and the multi-fiber fabric are dried and the possible color change is evaluated subjectively with gray scales.
The oils produced by sweat, especially those made of leather, damage car upholstery. Excess sweat wears down the upholstery over time and breaks it down. Body oils and sweat are made up of many salts, enzymes, and fatty acids that can reach a pH level that is definitely not suitable for skin style. Whenever sweat touches the skin, a chemical reaction occurs and these compounds penetrate and accumulate in the skin and weaken as the skin fibers continue to form. Eventually, the skin disappears completely. Possible first symptoms are scaling or a darkening point. If sweat and body oils affect the skin for a long time, the skin begins to crack and irreparable damage can occur at this point.
Our organization also provides sweat resistance testing services within the scope of GMW 14296 standard, with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.
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