DIN 53924 Textile Tests - Determination of Water Absorption Rate of Textile Fabrics (Method of Determining Height)

The standard “DIN 53924 Textile tests - Determination of water absorption rate of textile fabrics (method of determining rise height)”, published by the German Institute for Standardization (DIN), describes a method for determining the rate at which water is wicked away (capillary rise speed) in textile fabrics, yarns, or filaments. This method evaluates how quickly water is absorbed and transported vertically within the material via capillary action. This is an important characteristic for evaluating hydrophilicity (water absorption behavior) and overall absorption performance.

This is especially important for:

• Towels and towel fabrics
• Sportswear and performance textiles
• Underwear and hygiene products
• Medical textiles
• Yarns and filaments used in technical applications.

This standard is often used in conjunction with related standards such as DIN 53923 (determination of water absorption capacity) or DIN EN 14697 (specific to terry towels).

The test method described is a classic vertical wicking (rise height) test. This method simply follows these steps:

• A strip of fabric is typically cut, either in the warp or weft direction, about 25–30 mm wide and 200–250 mm long.
• The lower end of the strip is immersed vertically in a water bath (usually distilled or ionized water) to a certain depth (e.g., 15 mm).
• Water rises upwards through the fabric due to capillary forces.
• The height of the waterline is measured at specific time intervals (typically 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, and 5 minutes).
• Results are reported as suction height over time (in cm), indicating suction speed.

Higher and faster rising altitudes mean better absorption performance. The test is typically performed on conditioned samples (e.g., at 20 degrees Celsius and 65 percent relative humidity) and can be done on both untreated and treated fabrics.

In short, the DIN 53924 standard outlines a method for determining the color fastness of textiles to friction (abrasion). It evaluates how much dye is transferred from a colored textile surface to another material when subjected to friction. This property is critical for assessing the quality and durability of dyed or printed fabrics.

The main purpose of the DIN 53924 standard is to simulate real-life conditions where textiles come into contact with other surfaces (e.g., friction of clothing against skin, upholstery or other clothing) and to measure the following:

• Dry friction resistance
• Wet friction resistance

This standard applies to:

• Dyed fabrics
• Printed textiles
• Coated or finished textile surfaces

This test method involves rubbing a white test cloth against the surface of a sample under controlled conditions. The amount of color transferred is then evaluated.

The basic elements of this method are as follows:

• A standardized rubbing device (typically similar to a crockmeter)
• Specific pressure and number of cycles
• The use of both dry and wet scrubbing cloths.

The degree of staining on white fabric is assessed using a gray scale for staining. Results are generally rated from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent):

• Grade 5: No color transfer (excellent fastness)
• Grade 4-3: Mild to moderate transference.
• Grade 1: Severe staining (poor performance)

Separate ratings are reported for dry friction and wet friction.

Typical applications of this standard include:

• Clothing textiles (denim, cotton, synthetics)
• Upholstery fabrics
• Automotive interior textiles
• Technical and coated fabrics

The DIN 53924 standard is technically compatible with international standards such as the following:

• ISO 105-X12 Textiles - Color fastness tests - Part X12: Color fastness to friction
• AATCC TM008 Color fastness and abrasion resistance test method: crockmeter

Although the procedures may differ significantly, there may be similar, minor differences in the test parameters or evaluation criteria.

The importance of the DIN 53924 standard is based on a simple fact: textiles are constantly subjected to friction in real life. If the behavior of dyes under friction is not controlled, products can quickly lose their quality or even become unusable. This standard is considered important for the following reasons:

• Prevents dye transfer (friction): If a fabric has low abrasion fastness, its color can leach onto skin, other clothing, and furniture. This standard helps manufacturers identify and prevent this problem precisely before products are released to the market.
• It protects product quality and brand reputation: Visible staining or fading is one of the quickest ways to make a product appear low-quality. By following this standard, manufacturers can ensure the following:
  • To ensure consistent paint adhesion.
  • To reduce customer complaints and returns.
  • To protect brand credibility.
• It ensures real-world performance: Unlike purely chemical testing, this method simulates mechanical wear on clothing caused by movements such as sitting, walking, or bending, or mechanical wear on automotive or upholstery textiles from repeated contact. This makes the results highly relevant to real-world usage conditions.
• It supports safety and comfort: Color transfer is not just cosmetic: it can stain the skin or, in some cases, indicate the presence of unstable dyes that could cause irritation. Tests carried out under this standard help ensure that textiles are safe for prolonged contact.
• It provides standardized comparison: Without a standard method, results vary greatly between laboratories. The DIN 53924 standard ensures:
  • Repeatable test conditions
  • Comparable rating (on a scale of 1 to 5)
  • Reliable communication between suppliers, manufacturers, and buyers.

This is critical in global supply chains.

• It helps meet international requirements: Many sectors, particularly automotive, apparel exports, and home textiles, require proof of color fastness. This standard is closely aligned with standards such as ISO 105-X12, making it useful for international compliance.

In conclusion, the DIN 53924 standard plays a crucial role in evaluating the mechanical abrasion resistance of textile dyes. By providing a standardized, repeatable method, it helps manufacturers ensure that their products maintain their appearance and performance throughout their lifespan.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its clients, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting them in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services in accordance with the DIN 53924 standard.