The rubbing fastness test measures the resistance of a dyed or printed textile material to dry or wet rubbing, also known as crocking. This test helps evaluate the colorfastness and durability of the material against rubbing or friction. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has established various methods for conducting rubbing fastness tests. One commonly used method is ISO 105-X12.

ISO 105-X12 is specifically designed for assessing the rubbing fastness of textiles against rubbing with a dry or wet cloth. Here is a general overview of the ISO 105-X12 method:

1. Sample Preparation:

   - Cut representative test specimens from the textile material, ideally with dimensions specified in the standard.

   - Keep one set of specimens for dry rubbing and another set for wet rubbing.

2. Dry Rubbing Test:

   - Fix the test specimen onto the rubbing finger of a crockmeter or rub fastness tester.

   - Use a standardized rubbing cloth made of a specific material, typically white or unbleached cotton.

   - Apply a specified load or number of rubs using the rubbing finger and rubbing cloth. The force and stroke length may vary depending on the standard or specific test requirement.

   - After rubbing, evaluate the staining or discoloration on both the test specimen and the rubbing cloth.

   - Compare the degree of color transfer and staining against a grey scale to determine the dry rubbing fastness rating.

3. Wet Rubbing Test:

   - Wet the rubbing cloth with a specified liquid, usually distilled water or a synthetic perspiration solution.

   - Repeat the rubbing procedure as described in the dry rubbing test section.

   - Evaluate the staining or discoloration on both the test specimen and the rubbing cloth.

   - Compare the degree of color transfer and staining against a grey scale to determine the wet rubbing fastness rating.

The ISO 105-X12 method provides a standardized approach for assessing rubbing fastness, ensuring consistency in testing across different laboratories and manufacturers. It enables objective comparisons of colorfastness performance among textiles and helps determine their suitability for various applications.

It's important to note that the specific details, conditions, and evaluation criteria may vary depending on the standard version and variations within the ISO 105 series. It's always recommended to refer to the official ISO standard or specific test method for accurate and up-to-date information on conducting rubbing fastness tests.