The International Textile Research Centre of the Germany-based Hohensteiner Institutes has developed a two-part test to determine the qualitative and quantitative efficacy of antimicrobial textiles in reducing perspiration odor. The research and development was led by Dr. Dirk Höfer of the research center’s Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology.

The first stage of the test involves use of a microbiological cell model in which the antimicrobial textile impedes the metabolism of microbes that generate a particular odor substance, and the use of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis to measure the amount of odor substance generated as well as the efficacy of the textile. The second stage comprises a controlled wear test in which test participants apply their own perspiration to the textiles, and the qualitative and quantitative assessment of odor reduction in the antimicrobial textile compared with conventional textiles.

The institute will provide a Hohenstein quality label for use by textile manufacturers that have verified the efficacy of their products through independent testing.

June 17, 2008