Textile Lab Testing: Martindale
Applus+ Reliable Analysis delivers reliable Martindale abrasion testing that helps textile and medical device manufacturers evaluate how well their fabrics withstand multi-directional rubbing, pilling, and long-term wear. Our expanded capabilities build directly on our existing Martindale abrader and related abrasion accreditations using proven equipment already operating in our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory. You receive clear data on wear resistance, surface appearance, and durability for medical scrubs, gowns, drapes, workwear, upholstery, and technical textiles that must endure repeated use and cleaning.
Martindale testing uses a controlled Lissajous motion to simulate real-world abrasion on fabrics and coated materials, measuring breakdown, pilling, color change, and overall wear after thousands of cycles. This is especially critical for medical scrubs, surgical gowns, patient drapes, seating fabrics, and protective textiles where surface integrity affects hygiene, professional appearance, and product lifespan. At Applus+ Reliable Analysis, we perform these evaluations with our dedicated Martindale abrader, precision color and gloss instruments, and microscopes already running under our accredited scope. Our team tests under standard pressures (9 kPa and 12 kPa) and provides detailed cycle counts, pilling ratings, and visual documentation.
Common Martindale Textile Testing Standards
ASTM D4966 Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs ASTM D4966 Martindale abrasion testing using our dedicated Martindale abrader already accredited for multi-directional wear evaluation. We subject textiles to controlled Lissajous motion under specified pressure and assess breakdown, pilling, and surface changes. This test is essential for medical scrubs, gowns, drapes, workwear, and technical fabrics that experience repeated rubbing. You receive fast, ISO/IEC 17025-accredited results with clear cycle counts and ratings that help ensure your materials maintain appearance and durability in real-world use.
ISO 12947-1 Textiles General Principles
We run ISO 12947-1 Martindale abrasion testing on our current equipment for international markets. Textiles are evaluated for wear resistance under standardized conditions. This method supports global medical uniform and performance fabric manufacturers. You benefit from harmonized, widely recognized results that align with your export and quality standards.
ASTM D4966 Pilling Assessment (Martindale Pilling)
Applus+ Reliable Analysis combines ASTM D4966 Martindale abrasion with detailed pilling assessment using our abrader and E-058 microscopes. We measure both surface wear and pilling formation on medical scrubs, activewear, and technical textiles. This integrated approach gives manufacturers realistic performance data. You receive comprehensive results with high-resolution images that link abrasion resistance to appearance retention.
GMW3407 / GMW3208 Martindale Abrasion for Textiles
We perform GMW3407 and GMW3208 Martindale abrasion testing using our accredited Martindale equipment for GM-specified textiles. The method evaluates wear, color change, and surface durability under GM conditions. This supports medical seating covers and interior materials. You gain efficient, OEM-compliant results from a lab experienced with GM abrasion protocols.
FLTM BN 112-01 Martindale Abrasion
Applus+ Reliable Analysis executes FLTM BN 112-01 Martindale abrasion testing on our current equipment for Ford-specified textiles. We assess surface wear and appearance retention under controlled cycles. This method supports medical and interior fabric qualification. You receive reliable results integrated with our broader abrasion and chemical testing program.
SAE J948 Martindale Component
We incorporate Martindale abrasion into SAE J948 testing using our dedicated abrader. Textiles are evaluated for wear characteristics under automotive-relevant conditions. This supports technical and medical hybrid fabrics used in vehicle or clinical environments. You receive clear, SAE-aligned data that integrates with our full mechanical testing capabilities.
ISO 12947-2 Martindale Method Determination of Specimen Breakdown
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs ISO 12947-2 Martindale testing focused on specimen breakdown using our abrader. The method determines the number of cycles to endpoint failure. This supports durable medical and technical fabrics where long-term wear resistance is required. You benefit from precise endurance data that helps predict product lifespan.
Your Partner for Expert Textile Martindale Lab Testing
Applus+ Reliable Analysis stands ready to support your Martindale abrasion and wear resistance testing needs with the same technical expertise and attention to detail we bring to all our mechanical testing programs. Our ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and established Martindale and supporting equipment allow us to expand these textile capabilities quickly and cost-effectively.
If you are developing or qualifying medical scrubs, gowns, workwear, upholstery, or any textiles where long-term abrasion resistance is important, we would be happy to discuss how our capabilities align with your project. Contact us today or request a quote to get started. We look forward to partnering with you.
Additional Applus+ Reliable Analysis’ Commercial Textile Testing Capabilities
Whether it be material EMC, environmental, fabrication, or durability testing, Applus+ Reliable Analysis has a full lab of test equipment, which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development rather than testing.
Below is a list of common textile testing types that Reliable Analysis offers. Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact us, and we will determine the best course of action.



