AATCC 94-2017 Formaldehyde (Spot Test)

Purpose of test 

This test is used to determine the amount of formaldehyde released by various textiles..

These can include: 

  • Yarns
  • Fibers
  • Other fabrics

Terminology Defined

Chromotropic acid — A chemical that reacts with formaldehyde and sulfuric acid and causes a test specimen to display color when formaldehyde is present.

A bottle of laboratory-grade formaldehyde. (Image Source: amazon.com)

Test method

Materials Used for Test 

  • Fabric test specimen
  • Chemicals for testing 
  • Distilled water

Testing Procedure

  • Chromotropic acid and sulfuric acid are the most commonly used chemical combination used for this test

Test Procedure (Summary)

Chemicals are combined with distilled water and applied to a test medium. The sample textile or solution will display a reddish-purple color if formaldehyde is present.

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