The rubbing fastness test measures the resistance of a material's color to rubbing or abrasion. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) has established a standard method for conducting rubbing fastness tests, known as ISO 105-X12. This method is widely accepted and used in the textile industry to assess the colorfastness of textiles and textile-related products.

Here is an overview of the ISO 105-X12 rubbing fastness test:

1. Sample Preparation:

   - Cut out test specimens from the material to be tested.

   - Precondition the specimens as per standard requirements, including washing and drying if applicable.

2. Test Apparatus:

   - Crockmeter or rubbing fastness testing machine.

   - Standardized rubbing finger or rubbing fabric.

   - A standardized grey scale for color assessment.

3. Test Procedure:

   - Mount the test specimen securely onto the crockmeter or rubbing fastness testing machine.

   - Place the rubbing finger or rubbing fabric onto the surface of the test specimen.

   - Apply a specified force (usually 9 Newtons) and a specific number of rubbing cycles (usually 10 or 20), ensuring consistent pressure and speed.

   - After completing the rubbing cycles, remove the rubbing finger or fabric.

4. Evaluation:

   - Inspect the rubbed area of the test specimen along with the standardized grey scale.

   - Compare the color transfer and staining on the rubbed area to the grey scale, and assign a rating based on staining or color change using the standard reference.

The ISO 105-X12 rubbing fastness test provides a standardized method for evaluating the colorfastness of a material when subjected to rubbing or abrasion. The test assesses the tendency of the material's color to transfer or fade onto other surfaces or objects during usage or contact.

The results of the rubbing fastness test are typically reported as a rating on a scale, with higher ratings indicating better colorfastness and resistance to rubbing. The standardized grey scale helps in the visual assessment and comparison of the rubbed area, allowing for consistent and reliable evaluation across different laboratories or testing facilities.

It is important to note that the ISO 105-X12 rubbing fastness test is specific to textiles and may not be applicable to other materials or surfaces. Different industries or specific applications may have their own modified versions of the rubbing fastness test to suit their requirements.

Overall, the ISO 105-X12 rubbing fastness test is a widely recognized and accepted method for evaluating the colorfastness of textiles when subjected to rubbing or abrasion. This standardized testing procedure helps ensure the quality and durability of textile products.