Color stability of selected PFD cover fabrics

Color changes in six fabrics used as covers for personal flotation devices (PFDs) were evaluated after exposure to simulated sunlight, lake water plus light, and sea water plus light. Each of the fabrics showed color changes that were both statistically and visually significant. Differences in effects between the three treatments were not statistically significant, but color change increased significantly as the duration of exposure increased. Four fluorescent fabrics, including three bright 'neon'-colored and one white fabric, showed significantly greater color change than did two nonfluorescent fabrics.