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#Research & Development

Hohenstein tests according to European guidelines for community masks

Standardized test procedures at Hohenstein provide information as to whether everyday masks are sufficiently breathable and have sufficient filter performance. © Hohenstein
Testing service provider and research partner, Hohenstein now tests according to the first European guideline for community masks, the CEN Workshop Agreement (CWA) 17553:2020. Hohenstein had already taken a big step towards safety and functionality with the introduction of its quality label for Tested Community Masks. The new "Community Face Coverings-Guide to minimum requirements, methods of testing and use" sets minimum requirements for design, performance evaluation, labelling and packaging of both reusable and disposable masks.

Community masks are important in containing the spread of the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. But: to fulfill their function, they must meet certain requirements. The objective of the standard is to support manufacturers of masks who have switched production to non-medical, everyday masks. This will provide them with assistance regarding the requirements for such masks, which must also meet the legal requirements for textiles and satisfy certain functional demands. 

Uniform product quality and durability standards across Europe are particularly important for containing the spread across borders. Clear product information helps consumers rely on the safety of community masks. The guideline can therefore also serve as a marketing aid for suppliers in international competition.

The Hohenstein Quality Label for Tested Community Masks makes the quality and durability of the products visible. © Hohenstein
The Hohenstein Quality Label for Tested Community Masks makes the quality and durability of the products visible. © Hohenstein




Standardized test procedures at Hohenstein provide information as to whether everyday masks have sufficient breathability and filter performance. Other quality parameters include washability, fit and safety from harmful substances. Hohenstein also checks compliance with legal requirements and proper labelling and use instructions.

Manufacturers of everyday masks can also earn the Hohenstein Quality Label for Tested Community Masks by proving product performance and certifying to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®.

Find detailed information here: http://www.hohenstein.com/cwa-standard and http://www.hohenstein.com/hql-community-masks


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#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

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#Sustainability

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#Research & Development

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#Research & Development

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#Research & Development

2026 general meeting of the Friends and Supporters of RWTH Aachen at ITA

The Friends and Supporters of RWTH Aachen e. V. (proRWTH) looked back on a successful year of support at their 2026 general meeting. The meeting took place at Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen and was combined with a joint session of the Executive Board and the Administrative Board. Before the general meeting began, participants were given a guided tour of ITA, providing them with fascinating insights into current research and development topics in textile engineering.

#Research & Development

GenuTrace client advisory: Is your cotton supply chain UFLPA ready?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has released updated operational guidance (CBP Publication No. 5560-0526) expanding its forced labor enforcement framework. The guidance supersedes the original 2022 UFLPA Operational Guidance and now covers all forced labor enforcement authorities — UFLPA, CAATSA, and WROs/Findings — in a single unified document. For cotton importers, the enforcement posture has not softened. It has become more structured, more documented, and more demanding. Learn more about UFLPA.

#Research & Development

TERNAfil wins first place at PitchMiUp Night 2026 in Minden

The RWTH spin-off TERNAfil has developed MAXCarbon, a new high-performance hybrid fibre that combines the mechanical performance of carbon with the temperature and corrosion resistance of ceramic materials. For this development, TERNAfil was awarded first prize at the PitchMiUp Night in Minden on 21 May 2026.

#Research & Development

Carbon-ceramic hybrid fibre proves its worth – NRW Minister for Science Mona Neubaur congratulates ITA start-up TERNAfil

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#Natural Fibers

Cotton ConneXions Insight to Impact brings supply chain leaders together around cotton innovation

Cotton Incorporated’s Cotton ConneXions Insight to Impact brought together more than 300 industry leaders from 140 companies across 10 countries, including more than 45 top global brands and sourcing organizations, underscoring strong global interest in cotton-rich product development, sourcing and supply chain collaboration.

#Knitting & Hosiery

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#Natural Fibers

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#Recycling / Circular Economy

HKRITA signs MoU with Jeanologia and Looptworks to establish the Green Machine Circular Textile Ecosystem

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