When it comes to commercial seating applications, there’s one factor that makes or breaks the quality of the material—hydrolysis resistance.

You’ve probably heard the term thrown around in the world of upholstery and furniture manufacturing, but what does it actually mean? Why should you care about it when choosing the right materials for high-use environments?

Let’s dive in and explore the science behind hydrolysis, how it impacts Polyurethane (PU), and how we can measure resistance to it.

Hydrolysis: The Hidden Enemy of Upholstery

Hydrolysis might sound like a word straight out of a science textbook, but in the world of furniture and upholstery, it’s a silent, slow killer of quality materials. Hydrolysis is the process by which heat and humidity break down the cell structure of materials, such as Polyurethane (PU). This degradation results in a surface that becomes brittle, flaky, and ultimately, unusable.

It’s not just the tropical heat that causes this—indoor environments can also be guilty. Think about body heat, sweat, or even the air-conditioning system that’s constantly cycling in and out. Over time, the moisture and warmth can cause a lower-grade PU to degrade, leading to uncomfortable seating and unsightly wear.

Why Does Hydrolysis Resistance Matter?

In commercial seating, you need materials that stand the test of time. And let’s face it, no one wants their beautiful chairs and sofas to start peeling or flaking after a few years, especially in high-traffic areas like offices, restaurants, or hotels. Hydrolysis resistance is the factor that ensures long-lasting durability. If your material doesn’t have good hydrolysis resistance, it won’t last in the real world.

The good news? You can avoid hydrolysis degradation by selecting high-quality resins, such as Polycarbonate, which are specifically designed to withstand moisture and heat. These high-grade resins don’t just look good—they extend the life of your upholstery fabric, ensuring that your investment stays strong for the long haul.

The Jungle Test: How Do We Measure Hydrolysis Resistance?

So how do we know which materials are resistant to hydrolysis? We can’t just guess or hope for the best, right? That’s where ISO 1419 comes into play, also known as the Jungle Test.

The Jungle Test is an internationally recognized standard used to determine hydrolysis resistance. In this test, the material is placed in a controlled air-oven and humidity apparatus. The sample is exposed to 95% relative humidity and a temperature of 70°C (158°F)—a real tropical environment, where heat and moisture work together to accelerate the degradation of the material.

The material is left to “age” under these harsh conditions for several weeks, and then its condition is compared to a control sample. This helps us determine if the material can withstand these extreme conditions over time or if it starts to degrade.

And while the test is measured in weeks, it’s often referred to in terms of years, like 7-Year Hydrolysis or 10-Year Hydrolysis. But here’s the thing: while it’s tempting to think that the number of weeks directly correlates with how many years the material will last in real-world use, it’s not quite that simple. There’s no exact one-to-one relationship, so it’s important to take these test results as guidelines rather than guarantees.

The ACT Guidelines: How Much Testing Is Enough?

When it comes to upholstery materials, The Association for Contract Textiles (ACT) is the expert voice. According to ACT, a minimum of 5 weeks of hydrolysis testing is recommended for a material to be considered suitable for commercial upholstery use. That means, if you want a product that will stand up to real-world conditions—whether it’s a busy restaurant, hotel lounge, or office space—you need materials that have passed this minimum threshold. ✅

Real-Life Experience: My Journey with PU Upholstery

From my own experience in the upholstery and furniture industry, I’ve seen firsthand how hydrolysis resistance impacts the longevity of commercial furniture. I remember working with a client who had just invested in a beautiful set of PU leather sofas for their office. The look was sleek and modern, but within a year, the chairs started to show signs of peeling and flaking—a clear case of poor hydrolysis resistance.

The issue? The material wasn’t designed to handle the environmental conditions. In their office, the heat from body temperature and air conditioning combined with the occasional coffee spill created a moisture-rich environment that the material wasn’t prepared for.

We quickly realized that switching to a high-quality PU with better hydrolysis resistance would be the best solution. After making the switch, not only did the sofas last longer, but they also maintained their aesthetic and comfort—no more peeling or flaking!

What Can We Do to Ensure Better Hydrolysis Resistance?

As a designer or manufacturer, your priority should always be to choose materials that have proven resistance to hydrolysis. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your furniture investment lasts:

1. Select High-Quality Materials: Always go for high-grade resins, such as Polycarbonate. These resins are specifically formulated to resist hydrolysis and provide better long-term durability.

2. Hydrolysis Testing: Look for materials that have passed the ISO 1419 Jungle Test or have been tested for at least 5 weeks. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your furniture can handle heat and moisture without breaking down.

3. Proper Maintenance: Even with high-quality materials, it’s important to properly care for your furniture. Regular cleaning and avoiding excessive exposure to heat or moisture can go a long way in extending its life.

4. Invest in Durability: While it’s tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, remember that investing in durable, hydrolysis-resistant materials will save you money in the long run. The last thing you want is to replace your upholstery every few years because it couldn’t withstand everyday use.

   

In Conclusion: The Key to Long-Lasting Upholstery

Hydrolysis resistance is a critical factor in ensuring that your furniture stands the test of time. Whether it’s for your home, office, or a commercial space, choosing the right material—one that can resist the damaging effects of heat and moisture—will pay off in the long term.

By understanding the Jungle Test and the importance of hydrolysis resistance, you can make smarter choices when it comes to upholstery materials. Invest in high-quality products, and your furniture will not only look great but also perform well under pressure, season after season.