TESTEX joins Microfibre Consortium

The Swiss testing and certification institute TESTEX in the canton of Zurich has become a member of the Microfibre Consortium. According to a press release, its vision is to work towards zero impact from textile fiber fragmentation to the natural environment. Both TESTEX and the Consortium are striving to reduce microplastic shedding in the textile industry.

As a member of the Microfibre Consortium, the Zurich institute will benefit from one of the largest databases for fiber fragmentation globally. TESTEX can also upload its own test reports and compare and analyze the results with anonymized data from global members.

As well as joining the Microfibre Consortium, TESTEX has launched its new TESTEX MICROPLASTIC label. The label signifies that textiles have undergone rigorous testing conducted in accordance with international standards, including ISO 4484-1:2023 and ISO 4484-2:2023. The institute uses a Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) Imaging System with the latest generation of quantum cascade lasers (QCL) to analyze the release of particles, either from washed textiles or wastewater.

According to the company, key benefits of the TESTEX MICROPLASTIC label include microplastic emission control and greater transparency and sustainability leadership for brands, retailers and manufacturers. ce/ww