6.1.8.1 Atmospheric Gases

The two main atmospheric contaminants that affect colors are ozone and nitrous oxide. Fading from nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as fume fading. Acetate fabrics, especially blues and purples, are particularly susceptible to fume fading, usually turning a reddish color. Careful choice of dyes as well as application of chemical inhibitors can prevent this problem. All color types are susceptible to the effects of ozone. Fading from atmospheric contaminants is considered a fabric failure unless it can be corrected by a normally applicable method.