Textile testing, analysis and certification

Understand how textiles perform in real-life use and skin-close microclimates. We evaluate properties such as moisture transport, thermal insulation, pressure distribution, air permeability and water repellency (including Spray Test and Bundesmann methods).

Using advanced equipment, we simulate realistic usage conditions and provide objective data on comfort, functionality and performance.

Evaluate strength, durability and resistance to wear.

Textiles are tested using methods such as:

• Tensile, tear, seam and bursting strength testing (CRE)
• Abrasion testing (Martindale)
• Pilling and snagging

These tests measure how materials perform under stress over time and in different conditions — critical for product development, procurement and claims investigations.

Predict how textiles change over time.

Colour changes and staining are common causes of product complaints. We test colour fastness to washing, light, perspiration, water, migration and rubbing, tailored to the intended application of the textile product.

Validate durability and protective performance.

We simulate ageing through repeated washing cycles, light exposure, abrasion and exposure to environments such as seawater to evaluate how materials perform over time.

Evaluate textile behaviour in fire situations.

Flame testing is particularly important for textiles used in transport, public environments, protective equipment, apparel, bedding products and interior textiles. We analyse how quickly a material ignites, burns and potentially self-extinguishes.

Identify hazardous substances and protect consumers and the environment.

Using advanced instrumentation, we detect substances such as:

• Carcinogenic and allergenic dyes
• PFAS
• Phthalates
• Bisphenols
• Heavy metals
• Siloxanes
• Quinoline
• ADCA
• UV stabilisers

These analyses verify compliance with regulations such as REACH, which is particularly important for children’s products and textiles in contact with skin.

Strengthen your brand with globally recognised certification.

RISE is an authorised OEKO-TEX® institute certified to issue:

• STANDARD 100
• LEATHER STANDARD
• MADE IN GREEN
• STeP
• ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX®

These certifications demonstrate chemical safety, transparency and responsible production practices.

Develop testing solutions tailored to your needs.

Our experts can adapt existing methods or develop new testing protocols for novel materials, new product types or applications not covered by existing standards.

We help companies develop their own product specifications and testing requirements.

Our experts assist in identifying relevant material properties, selecting appropriate test methods and defining realistic performance requirements.

From raw materials or recycled resources to the next product generation.

Using our expertise and machinery, we support product development from new materials or recycled textile streams. We can process materials through tearing, carding, yarn spinning and needle punching to create prototypes in yarns, knitted materials or nonwoven textiles.

The Chemical Group is a network that provides companies in the textile and electronics industries with access to up-to-date knowledge and expert support in chemical management and sustainability.

Members receive:

• Regulatory monitoring
• Practical tools
• Updates on chemical legislation
• Best practices for replacing hazardous substances

Get expert support across the entire value chain — from development to market.

We offer guidance on material selection, specifications, standards and product complaints. Our courses and training programmes can be customised and cover topics such as fibre science, testing methodology and textile care chemistry.

How can we ensure that our textiles meet chemical safety requirements?

Through chemical analysis and testing, textiles can be evaluated against regulations and standards such as REACH and OEKO-TEX®. These analyses identify regulated or undesirable substances and verify compliance with both legal and customer requirements.

What tests are needed to evaluate durability and functionality?

Textile performance can be assessed through mechanical and physical testing such as abrasion resistance, tensile strength, colour fastness and dimensional stability. These analyses help companies ensure quality, durability and functionality.

How are comfort properties such as breathability and thermal regulation evaluated?

Comfort properties are analysed through tests measuring air permeability, moisture transport and thermal behaviour, providing insight into how materials perform in real usage conditions.

How can the origin and traceability of textiles be verified?

Traceability can be ensured through material analysis, raw material documentation and supply chain verification. Analytical methods help confirm material composition and link it to specific raw materials and production processes.

Which standards apply to technical textiles?

Requirements vary depending on application — such as medical textiles, protective clothing or industrial textiles. Testing is performed according to international standards including ISO, EN and ASTM.