Digital Transformation in Leather Color Fastness Evaluation: Computer-Assisted Grey Scale Analysis

Abstract Leather is a critical material in the fashion industry, where it is required to meet specific customer demands for color, specifications, and performance, especially regarding color fastness. Traditional methods for assessing color fastness rely on subjective evaluations conducted by professional experts using grey scale standards. However, human evaluation can be inconsistent due to various factors, such as lighting conditions and individual perception. In this study, leather samples were first subjected to expert evaluations and scored using the grey scale system. These evaluations were then compared with color measurement data obtained through a spectrophotometer, which was processed using custom-designed software (written in the Python programming language). This software provided precise grey scale values based on the color measurements, enabling accurate digital assessments. The results of the comparative analysis showed that the computer-assisted grey scale assessment could be completed in a significantly shorter time frame with a minimal margin of error, offering a more reliable and efficient alternative to traditional evaluation methods. This approach not only enhances the accuracy of color assessments but also streamlines the evaluation process in the leather industry.