#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

A new standard to combat plastic waste in forests

With DIN SPEC 35808 “Tree Shelter for Forestry Applications,” the testing and research service provider Hohenstein, in collaboration with Rottenburg University of Forestry, as well as forestry authorities and industry partners, has established a clear framework for bio-based and fully biodegradable tree shelters. The pre-standard defines requirements and practical testing methods designed to reduce plastic waste in forests and strengthen the long-term protection of soil and the environment.

Hohenstein publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

The testing and research service provider Hohenstein has published its latest sustainability report, outlining key progress and strategic initiatives. The report focuses on ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, the company’s new mission statement and the systematic expansion of sustainable services for customers worldwide.

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.

TCLF: Resilient value chains in times of crises

The textiles, clothing, leather and footwear (TCLF) industry was at the centre of the webinar “Resilient value chains in times of crises”, which took place on 28 April 2026. Global supply chains continue to face increasing pressure, raw material dependencies are growing and economic uncertainties are affecting the entire sector.

Textile climate control system in workwear – exhibition at the 2026 SME Innovation Day!

Conventional protective workwear often reaches its limits during strenuous physical activity. In particular, the transport of sweat and excess body heat poses a problem. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) conducted research on flow-optimized, air-conducting textile structures that enable targeted climate control directly on the body. These structures can be integrated straight into protective work garments. The textile climate control system supports the body’s natural thermoregulation. This contributes to improved workplace safety and comfort.

Elastic yarns to become more recyclable and environmentally friendly in future

On 29 April 2026, ITA student Tobias Dickmeiß was awarded a sponsorship prize by the Wilhelm Lorch-Stiftung for his innovative approach, to replacing conventional elastane with elastic yarns made from thermoplastic copolyester elastomers (TPC). Thanks to their thermoplastic nature and compatibility with typical polyesters used in the textile industry, elastic TPC yarns offer improved recyclability. Furthermore, the use of the melt-spinning process in yarn production eliminates the need for solvents that are harmful to the environment and human health.

Walter Reiners Foundation Prize awarded to three ITA graduates

Sabina Dann, Lukas Balon and Annegret Storm from the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University were awarded the Walter Reiners Foundation Prize by the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) for their master’s and bachelor’s theses. Peter Dornier, Chairman of the Walter Reiners Foundation, presented the awards during Techtextil at the VDMA stand in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles unveils Trends 2027 alongside new lifestyle zone and product expansion

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition 2026 will spotlight forward-looking design directions and evolving consumer demand, as the global home and lifestyle market continues to adapt to sustainability priorities, emotional well-being, and diversified living spaces. Taking place from 18 – 20 August 2026 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair will present its latest trend theme, ‘BREATHE UP!’, developed in collaboration with leading international trend forecaster NellyRodi™ Agency, alongside expanded product categories, and the debut of the Home Textiles Lifestyle Zone.

Itema to showcase weaving excellence at ITM 2026

From June 9 to 13, Itema will exhibit at ITM 2026 in Istanbul (Hall 8 – Stand 806D), unveiling a distinctive exhibition concept designed to highlight the Company’s expertise across the entire weaving value chain. For this year’s edition, Itema will introduce an innovative stand experience built around two core areas: advanced weaving and spare parts solutions and an immersive textile gallery featuring fabrics produced by Itema Customers worldwide.