Westex ShieldCXP™

Performance Rating using the AATCC 193 Test Method

A modified AATCC 193 test method is used to quantify the chemical splash resistance. This method uses an A through D rating scale to rate the interaction of water and water/alcohol mixtures with the fabric surface. In the test, the fabric is held on a flat surface and the test droplet is placed on the fabric. A rating is assigned after 10 seconds. An “A” rating corresponds to no interaction with the fabric while a “D” rating designates complete wicking of the solvent across and through the fabric. Ratings “B” and “C” are intermediate designations. The image below shows examples of each rating.

“A” and “B” ratings indicate that the fabric would possess a resistance to penetration following inadvertent chemical splash.

There are countless liquid chemicals and combinations thereof that could be tested and rated according to the AATCC 193 test method. A finite list of challenge chemicals was selected, including those from the ASTM F1001-12 method. These challenge chemicals are designed to represent a broad range of chemical classes, hazards, and physical characteristics, and although they have been tested, do not represent a complete list of chemicals that are used in a laboratory environment.

The ratings at the right were recorded.
Chemical exposure may affect future chemical and flame resistant properties. Careful consideration should be taken to replace the effected garment in accordance with the user’s standard safety protocol. For other chemical and chemical combinations it is recommended that, before use, a challenge droplet be applied to the fabric and rated according the AATCC 193 test method in a controlled manner.

Wash Durability

Westex ShieldCXP™ provides inadvertent chemical splash resistance through 50 industrial launderings.

• To a range of chemicals including Ethanol, DMSO and Acetonitrile*
• Using AATCC 193 test methodology laundering wash performed using 120^o, 140^o, NFPA 2112 150^o methods
• Samples were withdrawn every 10 launderings

Test Results

• Performance of the fabric relies on proper laundering
• Refer to the care and maintenance laundering guidelines
• For best durability and appearance 140^oF wash temperature recommended

Important to note: that chemical exposure may affect future chemical resistant properties. Careful consideration should be taken to replace the effected garment in accordance with the user’s standard safety protocol.

Comfort may affect if a garment is worn properly and PPE is only effective if it is properly worn.

Comfort of a garment is subjective to a wearer, but typical areas of interest are softer touch and more breathable.

Westex ShieldCXP™ is resistant to corrosive and oxidizing solvent combinations.

One particularly dramatic example is piranha solution

• 3:1 mixture of 98% sulfuric acid: 30% hydrogen peroxide
• Extremely oxidizing mixture known to consume organic matter and presents a significant hazard
• Despite its hazardous nature, it is a common mixture used in both academic and industrial laboratories

Test created to quantify the resistance against the penetration of piranha solution

• A fabric swatch was spread across the lid of a beaker to create a concave surface
• A freshly prepared piranha mixture was poured onto the fabric surface
• Time of penetration through the fabric was recorded in seconds