This document, AATCC Test Method 16.1-2012, details the comprehensive procedures for determining the colorfastness to light of various textile materials, including their colorants, finishes, and treatments, when exposed outdoors under glass. Developed by the AATCC Committee RA50, this method is widely applicable across the textile industry. It outlines essential principles, terminology, safety precautions, and the necessary apparatus. Key to the methodology are detailed exposure protocols, utilizing either a series of AATCC Blue Wool Lightfastness Standards as reference or instrumental monitoring of radiant energy. Test specimens are exposed simultaneously with these standards behind window glass under specified environmental conditions. Color change is subsequently evaluated visually using the AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change or through instrumental color measurement. The standard provides explicit instructions for specimen preparation, classification of lightfastness, and thorough reporting requirements, thereby ensuring consistent and reproducible assessment of a material’s resistance to color degradation from natural sunlight exposure.

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