#Research & Development

2024-12-19

New DIN SPEC supports the development of textiles with low microfibre discharge

Building on a rapid test for the detection of microfibres in sample water presented in 2023, the sporting goods manufacturer Under Armour, together with the testing service provider Hohenstein and the measuring device provider PPT Group, has now published a standardised test method that enables the determination of microfibre release from textiles under simulated washing conditions. With the help of the new DIN SPEC 19292, apparel/textile companies along the value chain are now able to measure and (e.g. comparatively) evaluate the extent of fibre release of different materials as part of their product development.

The new DIN SPEC 19292:2024-12, developed by Under Armour, Hohenstein and the PPT Group, makes it possible to determine the (micro)fibre discharge of textiles during washing using a standardised test method. A five-stage rating (from ‘1: very dense amount of fibres’ to ‘5: very small amount of fibres’) evaluates the extent to which a textile material releases fibre fragments into wastewater based on a visual inspection with a microscope. © 2024 Hohenstein

Test method is suitable for materials made of man-made and natural fibres

During the manufacture and use, but also during the care of textile products made from synthetic materials, fibres are released into the environment and pollute the oceans as microplastics, for example. Depending on the washing programme selected, i.e. the temperature and mechanical load, different quantities of textile fibres end up in the wastewater, even when washing items made from natural fibres. This is where the DIN SPEC 19292 test procedure comes in: After a simulated washing process of a fabric sample using tabletop equipment and a defined amount of water, the sample water is filtered and, based on a visual evaluation with a microscope, the degree of fibre fragmentation by the textile material is determined.

“With our broad expertise in sustainable solutions, we have been supporting companies in the textile industry for years in better understanding the fibre discharge of their products into the environment, making it objectively measurable and reducing it in a targeted manner,” says CEO Dr Timo Hammer, summarising Hohenstein's contribution to the new DIN SPEC.

On the industry side, Under Armour was looking to develop an easy-to-use, accessible solution for its producers that would allow the company and others to avoid microplastics through product development. “In the apparel industry, assessing the fibre abrasion of garments can be a costly and time-consuming process,” explains Kyle Blakley, Senior Vice President of Innovation, Development and Testing at Under Armour. “With Hohenstein's expertise, our team was able to align our innovative new test method to the globally recognised framework of DIN SPEC 19292. This exciting milestone supports our aim to make the test method as accurate and internationally accessible as possible.”

In addition to working on the new DIN SPEC 19292, Hohenstein also offers further tests to determine the extent to which (micro)fibres degrade in the wastewater of production plants or in household laundry and how harmful the fibre residues are to the environment. The tests are carried out according to Hohenstein’s in-house methods as well as international standards and procedures.

In addition to determining the (micro)fibre discharge, Hohenstein offers further tests that can also be used to determine how well textile fibres degrade in wastewater and how harmful they are to the environment. © 2024 Hohenstein

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Textile products made from synthetic fibres, finished fabrics or dyed materials release fibre fragments into the environment at every stage of their life cycle. With the new DIN SPEC 19296, Hohenstein has developed a standardised testing method to analyse how these fragments behave in soil under natural conditions. Until now, little was known about their environmental behaviour or potential ecological effects once released.

Testing and research laboratory ensures safe and more sustainable products worldwide

For 80 years, Hohenstein has stood for independent testing, scientific expertise and practical solutions. Today, the testing and research service provider supports manufacturers and brands worldwide in making textiles, hardlines and medical devices safe, more sustainable and market-ready – thereby building trust among consumers. With an international presence and interdisciplinary expertise, Hohenstein supports its customers from production through to market launch, helping them navigate an environment of growing regulatory and societal demands.

A smarter way to verified Chemical Compliance

Hohenstein and GoBlu Drive Innovation in Sustainable Supply Chain Management As regulatory demands, customer expectations, and sustainability goals continue to grow, the ability to manage chemical compliance and data across complex supply chains has become critical. Hohenstein and The BHive® by GoBlu are initiating a strategic partnership to enhance chemical management in the textile sector. The collaboration delivers more than just a service – it provides an integrated, future-ready solution for brands, manufacturers and suppliers seeking trusted chemical management and credible sustainability.

Hohenstein achieves GLP Certification for Medical Device Testing

Since the middle of July, the testing service provider Hohenstein has been certified to conduct medical device testing in accordance with the internationally recognised Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standard. This certification comprehensively covers chemical, physical and biological safety testing of medical devices.

Pellet press enables thermomechanical textile recycling on a pilot scale at ITA

Since the end of 2025, the technical centre of the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University has been equipped with a pellet press from the manufacturer Amandus Kahl GmbH & Co. KG, Reinbek, Germany. This press can efficiently compact shredded synthetic textiles at a throughput of up to 25 kg/h and process them into pellets with a diameter of 4 mm.

Fabolose: Fabricating vegan and circular leather alternatives from bio-tech-derived cellulose

Fabulose is an EU funded project coordinated by the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF). Its consortium consists of leading research institutes, biotech innovators, and industry stakeholders who aim to create high-performance, biobased and recyclable leather-like fabrics, using efficient biotech production routes for bacterial cellulose, cyanophycin and bacterial pigments

Solid Air Dynamics wins second place at RWTH Innovation Award

On 30 January, RWTH spin-off Solid Air Dynamics was awarded second place in the RWTH Innovation Awards for its research in the field of aerogel fibres. Manufactured from renewable raw materials, aerogel fibres offer outstanding thermal insulation, are extremely lightweight and completely biodegradable, and can consist of over 90 per cent air.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition opens next week to spotlight smart textiles, sleep trends and sustainable sourcing

The home textiles industry is ready to gather in Shanghai next week as Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition 2026 prepares to open at the National Exhibition and Convention Center from 11 – 13 March. Bringing together more than 360 exhibitors from six countries and regions, the fair will showcase an extensive array of home textiles, including bedding, towelling, carpets, home textile technologies, textile design and more, serving as a forward‑thinking hub where design, sustainability and smart living converge.

High-performance yarns for tomorrow's mobility

At this year's Techtextil in Frankfurt (April 21–24), Barmag will be presenting comprehensive solutions for the production of industrial filament yarns at the VDMA joint stand (Hall 12, C56). The focus will be on applications that ensure greater safety, durability, and efficiency in automotive engineering.