| 1 | Lightfastness test standard | ISO 105-B02 evaluates colour fastness to artificial light using a xenon-arc light source. | A test report identifying ISO 105-B02, the tested material, colour and method used. | A general statement such as “UV resistant” is not a substitute for a standard-specific report. |
| 2 | Blue Wool reference scale | The Blue Wool scale runs from 1 (lower lightfastness) to 8 (higher lightfastness). | The reported Blue Wool reference and the result or endpoint for each tested sample. | Use the scale to compare reported results; do not treat it as a guaranteed outdoor service-life rating. |
| 3 | Tested flag construction | Lightfastness results apply to the specimen tested, including its fabric, print method and colour. | Sample description listing fabric composition, fabric weight, print process and ink or dye system. | A result for one fabric or print configuration should not automatically be applied to another. |
| 4 | Colour-by-colour performance | Different colours in a design can fade at different rates under light exposure. | Results for representative colours, especially the most light-sensitive colours in the artwork. | A single result for a neutral or dark shade does not establish performance for every colour. |
| 5 | Exposure and evaluation details | ISO 105-B02 includes defined exposure and assessment procedures; the selected method and endpoints matter. | The full report, including method details, exposure conditions and the assessment basis. | Compare samples only when the test method and reporting basis are sufficiently alike. |
| 6 | Sample traceability | A meaningful report should be traceable to the specimen and production configuration it covers. | Sample identification, test date, report number and confirmation of who performed the test. | Traceability helps establish whether the report relates to the proposed production sample. |
| 7 | Laboratory and report verification | Test conclusions should be supported by a complete, identifiable laboratory report. | Laboratory name, report number and, where relevant, current accreditation details and scope. | Verify report details with the issuing laboratory when the result is important to the purchase. |
| 8 | Production consistency | A tested sample is evidence about that sample, not automatic proof that every production batch will match. | Documented colour-control process, approved production sample and batch inspection records. | Ask how the supplier controls fabric, printing and finishing changes between orders. |
| 9 | Other durability requirements | Lightfastness is distinct from properties such as wash fastness, rubbing fastness and weather resistance. | Separate test results matched to the intended use and cleaning or exposure conditions. | Choose additional tests based on the flag’s actual use; one test does not establish all durability properties. |
| 10 | Outdoor-use claims | ISO 105-B02 light exposure results alone do not specify a universal number of days or months outdoors. | Written claim conditions covering location, orientation, climate, maintenance and any warranty limits. | Actual service life depends on exposure and use conditions; request evidence for any specific lifetime claim. |
| Note: This table is a neutral comparison checklist, not a verified ranking of Chinese manufacturers. No supplier-specific scores or test results are assigned without comparable, verifiable reports. |
