Wicking Immersion Textile Laboratory Testing
Applus+ Reliable Analysis provides ISO/IEC 17025-accredited wicking testing to evaluate moisture transport in medical scrubs, gowns, and moisture-managing textiles using vertical and horizontal AATCC methods. Using specialized wicking equipment, color/gloss instruments, and Nikon microscopes, we measure how quickly liquids travel through fabrics via capillary action to verify moisture management and skin dryness. Combined with water-resistance, humidity-aging, and abrasion testing, our comprehensive approach supports OEM, FDA, AAMI, and international requirements.
Common Wicking Textile Testing Standards
AATCC 197 Vertical Wicking of Textiles
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs AATCC 197 vertical wicking testing using our precision wicking apparatus, E-007 color/gloss instruments, and E-058 Nikon microscopes already supporting water and surface evaluations. We measure how quickly and how high liquid travels vertically through medical textiles, scrubs, gowns, and barrier fabrics. This test is essential for moisture-managing medical garments and absorbent layers that must efficiently transport fluids away from the skin. You receive fast, ISO/IEC 17025-accredited results with clear wicking height and rate data that help ensure your materials provide effective moisture control and comfort in healthcare settings.
AATCC 198 Horizontal Wicking of Textiles
We run AATCC 198 horizontal wicking testing on our current setups for medical seating covers, wound care materials, and absorbent barrier layers. The method evaluates how liquids spread horizontally across fabrics to assess moisture distribution and management. This supports manufacturers of medical textiles designed to handle fluids efficiently while maintaining dryness. You benefit from reliable data that helps optimize fabric performance for patient comfort and hygiene.
GMW Wicking specs for Coated Textiles
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs GMW-specified wicking testing using our wicking apparatus and E-007 surface tools for GM medical seating and interior coated materials. The method assesses liquid transport behavior in coated textiles to meet GM performance criteria. This ensures materials handle incidental moisture without excessive absorption or staining. You gain efficient, OEM-compliant results from a lab experienced with GM coated textile requirements.
FLTM BN Series Wicking for Coated Materials
We execute FLTM BN series wicking testing on our current equipment for Ford-specified medical and interior coated textiles. The method evaluates liquid spreading and absorption characteristics under standardized conditions. This supports fabric qualification for medical and vehicle applications requiring controlled moisture behavior. You receive reliable results integrated with our broader water and surface testing program.
ISO 9073-6 Textiles Absorption
Applus+ Reliable Analysis applies ISO 9073-6 absorption testing adapted for wicking using our wicking setups and E-058 microscopes for international medical absorbent and barrier nonwovens. The method measures liquid transport and absorption rates in nonwoven structures. This supports global manufacturers of hospital-grade moisture management materials. You benefit from harmonized, widely recognized results that align with your export and quality standards.
AATCC 197 Post-Abrasion Wicking Assessment
Applus+ Reliable Analysis combines AATCC 197 vertical wicking testing with post-abrasion evaluation using our Martindale/Stoll abraders and wicking apparatus. Medical scrubs and protective garments are first abraded to simulate wear and then tested for changes in wicking performance. This integrated method gives manufacturers realistic durability data for high-use medical textiles. You receive practical results that reflect real-world wear followed by moisture management performance from one accredited laboratory.
GMW Post-Chemical Wicking
Applus+ Reliable Analysis combines GMW wicking testing with post-chemical exposure using our chemical chambers and wicking apparatus. Medical fabrics are exposed to disinfectants or cleaners and then evaluated for changes in liquid transport behavior. This integrated method serves producers of high-use medical seating and protective materials. You receive practical results that reflect real-world chemical contact followed by moisture interaction from one accredited laboratory.
ISO 9073-6 / AATCC Hybrid for Medical Moisture Management
Applus+ Reliable Analysis applies an ISO 9073-6 / AATCC hybrid method for medical moisture management using our combined wicking setups and E-058 microscopic verification. The testing evaluates liquid transport efficiency in hospital-grade scrubs, barrier fabrics, and absorbent layers. This supports manufacturers focused on advanced moisture control for patient comfort and infection prevention. You benefit from targeted results tailored to healthcare moisture management needs.
Your Partner for Expert Textile Wicking Immersion Testing
Applus+ Reliable Analysis supports your wicking and moisture-management testing needs with the same technical expertise and attention to detail applied across our mechanical testing programs. Additionally, our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory and established water- and surface-evaluation equipment allow us to expand these textile testing capabilities quickly and cost-effectively.
Whether you develop or qualify medical scrubs, gowns, barrier fabrics, seating materials, or other products that require controlled liquid transport, RA can support your testing objectives. Furthermore, our team will work with you to determine how our capabilities align with your project and deliver reliable, application-focused test data.
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.



