What is Abrasive Rub Test?

What is the Abrasive Rub Test?

In-depth look at the durability testing of artificial leather (Martindale Test ISO 12947)

Abrasive Rub Test is a test of a material's resistance to "abrasion" to measure how long a material can be used before wearing down, peeling, or being damaged. The most commonly used standard worldwide is the Martindale Test (ISO 12947), which is used with materials such as: PVC/PU artificial leather, upholstery fabric, sofas, chairs, bags, and shoes.

What is the Martindale Test?
The Martindale Test simulates real-world use by repeatedly rubbing the material in a circular motion until wear occurs.

• The resulting value is called the "Rub Cycles".
• The higher the Rub number, the more durable the material.

What does the Rub Test value tell you?
Criteria for choosing the right material for the application)

1. Decorative (<6,000 cycles)
   • Suitable for decorative applications.
   • Low-impact use
   • e.g., decorative pillows / display items
2. Light Domestic (6,000–15,000 cycles)
   • Light use in homes
   • Not for daily use
   • e.g., extra chairs / living room sofas
3. General Domestic (15,000–30,000 cycles)
   • Daily use
   • Suitable for main sofas / chairs in the home
4. Heavy Duty (>30,000 cycles)
   • Heavy-duty use
   • Used in commercial areas
   • e.g., hotels / restaurants / offices

Why is the Abrasive Rub Test important for PVC artificial leather?
Choosing artificial leather that "looks good alone" is not enough; it must also " withstand real-world use."

Benefits of tested materials:

• Reduces peeling, cracking, or fading
• Extends product lifespan
• Reduces long-term costs
• Enhance your brand quality.

• PVC Artificial Leather K922
• PVC Artificial Leather E444
• PVC Artificial Leather V485
• PVC Artificial Leather N88
• PVC Artificial Leather X40
• PVC Artificial Leather N74
• PVC Artificial Leather G67
• PVC Artificial Leather P31
• PVC Artificial Leather P37