ISO 20932-1:2018/Amd 1:2021

Overview

ISO 20932-1:2018/Amd 1:2021 is an important international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that focuses on the determination of elasticity in textile fabrics using strip tests. This amendment updates the original first edition published in 2018 by refining definitions, test conditions, and calculation methods to enhance accuracy and repeatability in assessing fabric elasticity. It serves as a critical reference for textile manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and researchers involved in fabric testing and development.

This standard applies specifically to strip tests that measure the mechanical behavior of textiles under cyclic loading to evaluate key parameters such as elongation, permanent deformation, recovered extension, and elastic recovery. The amendment ensures that testing processes align with internationally accepted methods, fostering consistency and comparability in elasticity measurement results worldwide.

Key Topics

• Fabric Elasticity Measurement
  Defines the ratio of recovered extension after cyclic loading to the fabric's initial length, expressed as a percentage. This metric quantifies how well a fabric returns to its original dimensions after stretching.

• Test Procedure Adjustments
  Amendment 1 specifies operational details such as the rate of extension and retraction which should be set at 100% of the specimen’s initial length per minute, ensuring standardized test speeds.

• Updated Formulae for Calculation
  The amendment revises formulas for calculating:

  • Elongation (S%) - the percentage increase in length under maximum force.
  • Permanent Deformation (C and C%) - the residual elongation after unloading and recovery.
  • Recovered Extension and Recovered Elongation (D and D%) - the amount and percentage that the fabric regains post-deformation.
  • Elastic Recovery (R and R%) - the distance and percentage indicating the fabric’s resilience.

• Terminology Clarification
  Provides precise definitions ensuring technical consistency, such as distinguishing recovered elongation from permanent deformation and detailing measurement references like clamp distances and marked reference points.

Applications

ISO 20932-1:2018/Amd 1:2021 is highly relevant across multiple stages and sectors in the textile industry:

• Quality Control and Assurance
  Manufacturers use this standard for systematic testing of fabric elasticity to maintain product quality, durability, and performance criteria, especially in stretchable fabrics like knits, sportswear, and technical textiles.

• Research and Development
  Textile engineers and scientists apply these standardized test methods to develop new fabric blends and treatments with optimized elastic properties for comfort and functionality.

• Compliance and Certification
  Ensures fabrics meet regulatory or market-driven requirements that specify elasticity characteristics, aiding in product certification and market acceptance.

• Performance Evaluation
  Used in assessing end-use fabric behavior under repeated stress, guiding decisions on fabric suitability for applications requiring memory and stretch resilience, such as upholstery, medical textiles, and wearable electronics.

Related Standards

• ISO 20932 Series
  This amendment is part of the broader ISO 20932 series covering elastics testing of fabrics by various methods beyond strip tests.

• ISO/TC 38, Subcommittee SC 24
  The responsible technical committee specializing in conditioning atmospheres and physical tests ensures cohesion with other textile standards.

• European Committee for Standardization (CEN) CEN/TC 248
  Collaborative development via the Vienna Agreement enhances harmonization between ISO and European textile standards.

• ISO 13934 Series
  Covers tensile properties of fabrics using strip and grab tests, complementing elasticity measurement by assessing strength.

• ISO 13936 Series
  Specifies methods for measuring fabric extension and recovery under cyclic loading with differing approaches.

By adhering to ISO 20932-1:2018/Amd 1:2021, professionals benefit from a robust, internationally recognized framework to assess the elasticity of textiles accurately-leading to improved product performance and customer satisfaction. For more information and updates, refer to ISO’s official website.