#Research & Development

2020-12-03

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

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

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.

An eco-friendly alternative to fluorocarbon treatments

Protective and outdoor clothing derives its durable water-, dirt- and oil- repellent properties from the application of fluorinated polymers or per- and polyfluorinated low-molecular- weight chemicals (PFCs). The beneficial properties thus achieved on textiles are offset by environmental and human health risks. For manufacturers of sports, medical, protective and automotive textiles, researchers at the Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. and the Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research have developed liquid-applied dispersions and solutions to functionalise textiles without the use of fluorine.

180 years of TESTEX: From Zurich silk testing to global certification

For 180 years, TESTEX has developed alongside the textile industry while maintaining the same underlying purpose: creating trust through independent and reliable measurement. Founded in Zurich in 1846 as the Zurich Silk Conditioning Institute, TESTEX has grown from a local institution serving the silk trade into an international Swiss testing and certification institute for textiles and leather.

Moving Advanced Recycling from Innovation to Implementation

The Advanced Recycling Conference 2026 explores technologies, markets, financing and scale-up of innovative recycling solutions for waste streams including mixed plastic waste, textiles and PVC. Europe’s chemical and materials sector faces growing pressure to close carbon loops, strengthen raw-material safety and resilience and meet increasingly ambitious EU recycling targets. Against this backdrop, the Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC) will bring together industry leaders, technology providers, researchers, innovators and policy-makers on 17–18 November 2026 in Cologne, Germany.

New Cotton Review examines competitiveness, market risk, and opportunities

From moving record volumes of Brazilian cotton to market, to managing price volatility, unlocking Ethiopia’s production potential, and strengthening African textile trade, the latest edition of Cotton: Review of the World Situation examines some of the most consequential opportunities and challenges facing the global cotton industry.

Long John puts KARL MAYER's RDJ 7/3 into operation and strengthens its position as a market leader

KARL MAYER has just unveiled its new RDJ 7/3 Jacquard Double Needle Bar Raschel Machine in the international trade press, and the innovation is already causing a stir in the market: The Long John Group, a leading manufacturer of performance footwear fabrics and a long-standing partner of renowned brands, was the first customer to invest in the new machine and celebrated its official launch at its Indonesian plant on August 20.

Patricia Urquiola in the Trend Space: Evolution and new design elements for Heimtextil 2027

At Heimtextil 2027, the Trend Space brings the Heimtextil Trends 27/28, curated by Alcova, to life. Within this framework, Heimtextil’s collaboration with Patricia Urquiola continues into its third year in 2027. In the Trend Space, the architect and designer presents three sculptures: alongside the familiar element “Bambi”, Urquiola is developing two new pieces specifically for Heimtextil. Thereby, she offers her unique interpretation of the trend theme “The Performance of Everyday Living”.