#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.

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.

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.

Young talents honoured – 60 years Walter Reiners Foundation

At the Techtextil trade fair in Frankfurt at the end of April, Peter D. Dornier, chairman of the VDMA’s Walter Reiners Foundation, presented awards to five successful young engineers. Promotion and sustainability awards were presented in the categories of bachelor’s/project theses and diploma/master’s theses. Academic theses are eligible for the sustainability awards if, for example, they develop solutions for resource-efficient products and technologies.

Regional hemp bast for lightweight construction profiles

The cultivation of fibre hemp for the production of ropes and clothing has a long tradition in Saxony. Due to its excellent fibre properties, it is also suitable as a renewable raw material for reinforcement in fibre composites. At the STFI and IWU in Chemnitz, the CannaPul project is cur- rently investigating how a regional value chain for hemp-based lightweight construction profiles can be established. To this end, the technical processing of hemp fibres into continuous fibre strands and their embedding in a suitable bio-based matrix are being investigated.

STFI highlights textile circular economy and alternative fibres at INDEX™ 2026

From 19 to 22 May 2026, INDEX will invite visitors to Lake Geneva for the world's leading nonwovens trade fair. The Centre of Excellence in Nonwovens at the Sächsisches Textilforschung- sinstitut e.V. (STFI) will be in attendance to present the latest developments in nonwovens research. In the field of the textile circular economy, the STFI will present acoustically effective nonwovens made from chemical recycling residues. The range also includes innovations aimed at replacing conventional raw materials, such as the biobased and biodegradable polymer polybutylene succinate (PBS) and Kendyr as an alternative to cotton.

FET’s revolutionary gel spinning system wins Techtextil Innovation Award

FET has received the prestigious Techtextil Innovation Award 2026 in the New Production Technology category. The Techtextil Innovation Award honours outstanding ideas in textile technology, sustainability, AI and the creation of technical textiles, selected by an international jury of experts. Ranging from new materials to new production technologies, this award recognises progressive ideas that are driving forces for numerous industries, such as automotive, medical and construction.