The Microfibre Consortium

       (TMC) Test Method       

Quantification of fibre loss from fabrics during simulated domestic laundering.

Work started in 2017 to develop an aligned and standard test method to quantify fibre loss from fabrics which reflect that found in domestic laundering, during the initial washing cycle.

This method has been developed through the collaborative relationship between The University of Leeds, European Outdoor Group and The Microfibre Consortium as well as the larger stakeholder network and is available publicly below for the benefit of an aligned adoption through the textile industry and beyond.

Using ISO 105-C06 at its core, The Microfibre Consortium Test Method uses standard lab equipment and provides accurate comparable data, in a manner that can be scaled commercially across a range of facilities.

To find out more about The Microfibre Consortium Test Method, click below.

Our global laboratory network:

With an accessible and aligned test method established, the laboratory network able to support provision of test data is growing. If you would like to utilise our test method and submit your testing results into The Microfibre Data Portal, you can do so using TMC accredited labs.

Please get in touch with labs directly by clicking the names below:

Intertek SGS TTRI Bureau Veritas Eurofins TUV Rheinland Lab Til Aitex Kaken Boken

Have you considered becoming accredited to perform
The Microfibre Consortium Test Method?

FAQ’s

The TMC Test Method

  • The TMC Test Method is a method developed by The Microfibre Consortium in collaboration with the University of Leeds and the European Outdoor Group in 2017. The test method measures fibre loss by weight by simulating domestic laundering. 

  • The TMC Test Method has similarities to both ISO 4484-1 and AATCC TM 212, however, the TMC Test Method does not use the addition of laundry detergent.

  • Testing for fibre fragmentation enables organisations to understand the shedding behaviour of specific fabrics, to identify the fabric characteristics contributing to high-shedding and ultimately, target development to create fabrics with reduced shedding rates. If results are also uploaded to The Microfibre Data Portal, this enables research analysis within an industry-wide dataset to better understanding the root causes of fibre fragmentation, which is crucial for enabling the development of effective interventions within textile design and manufacturing.

See all FAQ’s below