#Research & Development

2026-02-12

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Hohenstein introduces first realistic method to measure biodegradability and ecotoxicity of textile fibres in soil

The respirometer system measures how much oxygen soil microorganisms consume during material degradation, allowing the rate and extent of biological breakdown to be determined. © Hohenstein

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.

Holistic testing approach

DIN SPEC 19296 focuses on textile products and the fragments released through use, abrasion or disposal. Tests are conducted in standardised soil under defined climatic conditions over a period of up to 180 days.

The method combines several parameters: a respirometer system measures the oxygen consumption of microorganisms during degradation, enabling the biodegradability of textile fragments to be quantified. Plant growth tests using cress seeds assess potential effects on vegetation after degradation. In addition, earthworms are used as sensitive bioindicators to evaluate possible toxic effects. Survival rates and changes in body mass indicate whether degraded fragments or residues have a negative impact on soil organisms.

This integrated approach not only determines whether materials are biodegradable, but also whether their fragments could harm plants or soil organisms.

The test methods defined in DIN SPEC 19296 show whether soil remains contaminated after the degradation of textile fragments or continues to function as a habitat for plants and organisms. © Hohenstein

Practical relevance and added value

“Textile fibres and fragments are released into the environment not only during washing, but also during everyday wear,” says Juliane Alberts, Project Manager at Hohenstein. “DIN SPEC 19296 allows us, for the first time, to assess under realistic conditions how different textile fragments behave in soil. It makes an invisible issue visible and supports the development of more sustainable textile products.”

The new DIN SPEC enables companies to compare textile products in terms of their potential environmental impact resulting from fibre release. It also provides a scientific basis for evaluating environmental claims such as “compostable”.

Jointly developed – publicly available

DIN SPEC 19296 was developed by Hohenstein in cooperation with industry partners and is publicly available. The results can help to better assess the actual environmental impacts of textile fiber loss, derive appropriate mitigation measures, and develop materials with lower environmentally harmful fiber shedding for the textile industry.

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.

Hohenstein supports Global Textile Scheme Initiative

Global testing and research provider Hohenstein has acquired shares in Global Textile Scheme GmbH (GTS). In this way, Hohenstein aims to support GTS in harmonizing and automating data exchange along the entire supply chain. The aim of the GTS initiative is to create an international standard for handling structured product data in the textile and apparel industry.

Textilfabrik 7.0 launched: Mönchengladbach becomes a real-world lab for sustainable textile production

With the official kick-off event of the Textilfabrik 7.0 (T7), a major transformation project for the German textile and apparel industry has been launched in the Monforts Quarter in Mönchengladbach. At the “Textile Roundtable,” an event format organized by the Zukunftsagentur Rheinisches Revier, representatives from industry, research, politics, and the regional economy came together to jointly lay the foundation for CO₂-neutral, circular, and economically viable textile production in Germany.

STFI presents concepts for the textile circular economy and solutions for a healthy and safe life at Techtextil

Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. (STFI) has been supporting companies in developing marketable innovations for over 30 years. With a clear focus on sustainability, the environment, health and protection, the STFI offers future-oriented research, textile testing for tailor-made solutions and certification of per- sonal protective equipment. At Techtextil 2026, the institute will present ideas for the textile circular econ- omy and showcase solutions for healthy and safe living.

Cetex: Textile innovations “Made in Saxony” at Techtextil

This year, the Cetex Institut gGmbH is once again not only exhibiting but also organising a joint booth at Techtextil. Together with co-operation partners, textile innovations “Made in Saxony” will be presented on almost 85 m². The spectrum covers everything from textile machine construction and the manufacture of technical textiles to measuring and testing technology, with research and development also having its place.

YKK launches “YZiP® Light” aluminum alloy zipper for cotton pants

YKK Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Koichi Matsushima; hereafter, YKK) has launched YZiP® Light, a lightweight aluminum alloy zipper for cotton pants, with sales beginning in late March. The introduction of YZiP® Light expands YKK’s zipper portfolio—led by the flagship YZiP® copper alloy zipper—providing customers with greater flexibility to meet diverse garment needs.

Shima Seiki showcases WHOLEGARMENT® and 3D knitting solutions for technical textiles at Techtextil 2026

Leading textile technology solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, along with its Italian subsidiary SHIMA SEIKI ITALIA S.p.A., will be participating in the Techtextil 2026 exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany next month. On display will be WHOLEGARMENT® and other advanced three-dimensional knitting applications across a wide range of industries besides fashion apparel that are not typically associated with knitting, such as technical textiles using industrial materials and advanced three-dimensional knitting.