Testing & Standards
AATCC trusted textile testing helps you reach accurate test results, using dependable evaluation tools for consistent quality control.
Our test methods and procedures for textile evaluation are international standards cited in government, industry, and individual company specifications worldwide.
Accurate Results
Dependable Evaluation Tools
Consistent
Quality Control
Testing Materials
Get the right tools to properly conduct AATCC test methods.
Proficiency Testing Programs
Check Your Test Results.
Compare results with hundreds of labs worldwide. AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs (PTP) support lab certification and continuous improvement initiatives. Samples are selected to provide consistent results in a meaningful range for each test method or evaluation procedure.
Test Standards
AATCC test methods and procedures for textile evaluation are international standards cited in government, industry, and individual company specifications worldwide.
Test Method Training
On-Site Training
AATCC’s On-site Test Method Training was designed to bring expert-led instruction directly to your facility.
Global Training
Learn AATCC and ASTM test methods from certified trainers around the world. Many programs include one year of free AATCC membership!
Online Training
AATCC test method instruction and demonstration from anywhere! Customize your training experience by selecting the modules you need most and view at your convenience.
Committee Meetings
Our committees meet twice per year to develop test methods, educational programs, and AATCC activities. Most meetings are open to the public, held virtually, and are free to attend.
Get Involved!
Your input is valuable to AATCC and test method development.
Featured Items
Start Clean with AATCC Standard Detergent!
Get consistent results for reliable decisions by using standard detergent.
Gray Scales for Color Change
Fingerprints & light exposure can change the color reference chips on scales. Replace yearly for accurate results.
UV Calibration Reference Fabric
Make color communication throughout your supply chain and between instruments more precise.
Technical Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AATCC Proficiency Testing Program?
AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs (PTPs) support lab certification and continuous improvement initiatives. Samples are selected to provide consistent results in a meaningful range for each test method or evaluation procedure. AATCC PTPs cover Antibacterial, Appearance, Color Evaluation, Colorfastness, Fiber Analysis, Moisture Management, and Resistance evaluation procedures for textiles. To view the details of each program visit the Proficiency Testing Programs page
- AATCC sends samples, instructions, and data sheets to participating labs once per year.
- Labs have approximately one month to complete testing and submit results via email.
- AATCC compiles results and distributes the report to participating labs with a confidential lab code.
- AATCC issues digital Certificates of Participation at the end of the calendar year.
How do I register for the Proficiency Testing Program?
View the details and register for the Proficiency Testing Program
Registration deadlines are listed for each program, typically about one month before sample distribution. If you are paying by credit card or ACH, online registration is quick and secure. You will receive an emailed invoice confirming payment and registration.
To pay by check or wire (SWIFT, EFT, TT), you must download and submit a registration form. You will receive an emailed proforma invoice upon receipt of your registration form. When payment is received, you will receive an emailed invoice confirming payment and registration. Registration AND payment must be received at least one month before program ship date. If payment is received after the deadline, registration will be shifted to the next available round.
Did my lab pass or fail the Proficiency Test?
AATCC does not supply satisfactory/unsatisfactory or pass/fail grades to proficiency programs. The sole purpose of the AATCC Proficiency Testing Programs is to provide a simple report showing laboratories how their own lab’s data looks in comparison to other labs’ data around the world performing the same tests using the same test specimens. The data provided in the report is not to be interpreted as being right/wrong or satisfactory/unsatisfactory, it’s only to show a large data population and how your lab’s data fits within that large data population so that you can come to your own conclusions about your technicians’ testing and/or evaluating techniques. Since the Proficiency Programs began in the early 2000s, the staff have been upgrading and revising the data that is included in the results report. The current statistical format was developed by statisticians from the Institute of Textile Technology. The database structure that we use was created from their suggestions and expertise. The Introduction section of the report contains explanations of the statistics that appear with all report booklets.
What is included in the AATCC Proficiency Testing Program Summary Report?
- AATCC compiles all submitted data in a summary report. The report is emailed approximately one month after the closing date for data submission.
- Reports are emailed to the recipient address used to place the registration order. Please ensure this person knows to forward to others in the organization as needed. AATCC can release the report ONLY to the person who placed the order.
How do I submit data for the AATCC Proficiency Testing Program?
- When testing is complete for each round, enter all data in the provided spreadsheet. Save with your lab code as the file name and email to [email protected].
- Completed spreadsheet must be received by the submission deadline to be included in the report.
- Review data before submitting. Outlier data may be excluded from analysis (e.g., 35 in place of 3.5).
When and how are samples shipped for the AATCC Proficiency Testing Program?
Samples are shipped via FedEx. Your shipping address must include a contact name, complete street address (no PO boxes), and a phone number. Samples are shipped approximately one month after the registration deadline for each round. Check our Proficiency Testing Program page for registration deadlines. As of July 1, 2020, shipping fees are included in Proficiency Testing Program orders shipped outside the US. This policy is in line with shipping policies for all AATCC testing materials and publications. Please see Order Policies at https://members.aatcc.org/4dcgi/store/StoreItems.html?Action=Find_Store_Items&KeywordID_W=90. Customer-Arranged Shipping Limitation: Due to the bulk shipping process of the Proficiency Testing Program, customer-arranged shipping is not available for this program.
How should I perform testing and evaluation for the AATCC Proficiency Testing Program?
- Follow all testing instructions exactly.
- Use the current version of all referenced Test Methods and Evaluation Procedures. Verify the current versions at here.
- Use specified test equipment and materials. Check expiration and calibration dates.
- Identify fabric face and warp/wale/machine direction of all specimens. Ensure proper testing orientation.
- Minimize handling of fabric samples.