UPF Evaluation of Fabric Products such as Functional Masks

Significance of the Topic

• Ultraviolet radiation accelerates skin aging, freckles, and cancer risk
• Textiles with reliable UV protection are in high demand and regulated by UPF standards worldwide

Study Objectives and Overview

This study aimed to assess fluorescence interference in fabric products and obtain accurate Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) values by combining fluorescence measurement with UV-Vis transmittance analysis. Eight samples including six masks, one cap, and one towel were evaluated.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• RF-6000 Spectrofluorophotometer was used for three-dimensional fluorescence scans (Excitation 280–400 nm, Emission 280–550 nm).
• UV-2600i UV-Vis Spectrophotometer measured transmittance (280–400 nm, 1 nm intervals, slit width 5 nm).
• A bandpass filter (cut-off >431 nm) removed fluorescence emissions during transmittance measurements.
• LabSolutions UV-Vis UPF software calculated UPF according to multiple standards (JIS, EN, DIN, AS/NZS, AATCC, GB/T).

Key Results and Discussion

• Fluorescence around 350–450 nm was detected in the commercial white mask and one white functional mask, while other samples showed minimal fluorescence.
• After applying the filter, transmission spectra revealed higher UV transmission through white masks compared to colored or darker fabrics.
• Calculated UPF values varied by sample and standard:
• Commercial white mask UPF ~5 (low protection)
• Functional masks ranged from UPF ~15 (gray) to UPF ~79 (khaki) under JIS
• Functional black towel exhibited the highest UPF (>168), followed by the khaki mask
• Different calculation formulas and safety factors in each standard led to varying UPF ratings for the same sample

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• Fluorescence screening with RF-6000 ensures that UPF calculations are not underestimated due to emission artifacts.
• Automated UPF evaluation across multiple national standards accelerates product development, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration of inline fluorescence correction in textile manufacturing lines for real-time UPF monitoring.
• Design of UV-blocking fabrics with tailored optical properties to minimize fluorescence interference.
• Global harmonization of UPF standards to streamline international certification.
• Advanced software algorithms for predictive UV protection modeling based on fiber composition and surface treatments.

Conclusion

By combining RF-6000 fluorescence screening and UV-2600i transmittance measurements with specialized filtering and software, accurate UPF values can be obtained free from fluorescence distortion. This methodology enables reliable evaluation of UV protective textiles in accordance with international standards.

References

• JIS L1925-2019 Ultraviolet Protection Factor
• EN 13758-1:2002 Textile UV Protective Products
• DIN EN 13758-1:2007 German Standard for UV Protection
• AS/NZS 4399-2017 Australian/New Zealand Standard for UPF
• AATCC 183-2014 UV Protection
• GB/T 18830-2009 Chinese Standard for UV Protective Textiles