Abstract:

This work presents an experimental approach and the results of preliminary measurements of the light barrier properties of shading fabrics (blackouts). Based on literature it can be stated that there is a lack of requirements for fabrics with barrier features against sunlight. Woven blackouts which obtain shading properties through their structure need the development of objective methods, measurement indicators, and assessment criteria. Research was conducted on six woven blackouts, commonly used in public buildings as curtains. According to the conventional method, the level of transmittance evaluated was confirmed. All samples feature very good protection against visual radiation (VIS). However the subjective interpretation contributed to the discovery of differences between the samples. The questions raised are as follows: What differences are acceptable? How to qualify blackout fabrics properly? To demonstrate the ineffectiveness of the standard method, computer image analysis was used.