Analysis of standards for dispersible nonwovens: Differences between OEKO-TEX®, ASTM, EN and selection guide

Analysis of standards for dispersible nonwovens: Differences between OEKO-TEX®, ASTM, EN and selection guide

2025-04-02

As the core material of environmentally friendly hygiene products, dispersible nonwoven fabrics' standards and certifications have a direct impact on market access and consumer trust. In this article, we will analyse the core differences between OEKO-TEX®, ASTM and EN** in the field of dispersible nonwovens, and help enterprises to accurately select the certification system.

1. Special Requirements for Dispersible Nonwovens

In addition to meeting the standards for conventional nonwovens, dispersible products also need to comply with:
Dispersibility test (fibre length after dispersion, decomposition speed)
Pipeline compatibility (does it cause blockages)
Biodegradability (environmental requirements)

2. Comparison of three major standard systems

(1) European Standard Enhanced (OEKO-TEX®)
Core certification:
STANDARD 100 (testing for harmful substances)
MADE IN GREEN (sustainable production certification)

Flushable related requirements:
✔ Strict restrictions on fluorescent whiteners, plasticisers and other chemicals that affect water quality
✔ Requirement for fibre raw materials to meet biodegradable standards
✔ Additional requirements for wastewater treatment in the production process

Suitability:
High-end flushable wipes, sanitary products
Product lines that focus on the concept of ‘eco-flushable’.

(2) American Standard (ASTM)
Core Standard:
ASTM D6701 (Flushability Evaluation Standard)
ASTM D7861 (compatibility test for municipal wastewater systems)

Test Focus:
✔ Stirring disintegration test (simulates a flush toilet environment)
✔ Sieve residue analysis (fibre length ≤ 5mm after decomposition)
✔ Sedimentation velocity test (to prevent pipe sedimentation)

Applicability:
Required certification for flushable products for the North American market
To be used in conjunction with INDA/EDANA's GD4 Guidelines

(3) European Standard (EN)
Core Standard:
EN 13432 (compostability certification)
EN 14987 (dispersibility assessment)

Test features:
✔ Adoption of a more stringent biodegradability test (≥90% degradation within 180 days)
✔ Requires heavy metal levels below agricultural compost standards
✔ Requires simulated testing of wastewater treatment systems by a third party laboratory

Suitability:
Mandatory access to EU market for flushable products

3. Comparison table of key differences

Certification dimensions
OEKO-TEX®
ASTM standards
EN standards

Core focus
Chemical safety + sustainable production
Physical dispersion properties
Biodegradability + system compatibility

Dispersion test methods
Reference to EN standards
Mechanical mixing + sieving method
Static immersion + activated sludge test

Degradation time requirement
No specific time limit
No requirement
≤180 days (90% degradation)

Heavy metal limit
0.1-50ppm (by product grade)
No requirement
≤0.5-10mg/kg

Market Recognition
Global High-end Brand
North America Market Access
EU Mandatory Standard

4. Suggestions for Enterprise Selection

(1) Selection by target market
European market: EN 13432 + OEKO-TEX® dual certification
North American market: ASTM D6701+INDA GD4 certification
Global high-end market: OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN

(2) Selection by product positioning
Basic model: meet the local mandatory standards can be
High-end model: OEKO-TEX® certification is recommended.

5.Conclusion

Understanding the difference between **European Standard (ES), American Standard (AFSL) and European Standard Enhanced (OEKO-TEX®) can help you to accurately match the market demand and enhance the competitiveness of your products.Soonercleaning provides nonwoven products that comply with the certification of ES, AFSL, and OEKO-TEX®**, welcome to consult with us!

flushable nonwoven standards, OEKO-TEX vs ASTM vs EN, dispersible nonwoven certification

Certification dimensions	OEKO-TEX®	ASTM standards	EN standards
Core focus	Chemical safety + sustainable production	Physical dispersion properties	Biodegradability + system compatibility
Dispersion test methods	Reference to EN standards	Mechanical mixing + sieving method	Static immersion + activated sludge test
Degradation time requirement	No specific time limit	No requirement	≤180 days (90% degradation)
Heavy metal limit	0.1-50ppm (by product grade)	No requirement	≤0.5-10mg/kg
Market Recognition	Global High-end Brand	North America Market Access	EU Mandatory Standard

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1. Special Requirements for Dispersible Nonwovens

2. Comparison of three major standard systems

3. Comparison table of key differences

4. Suggestions for Enterprise Selection

5.Conclusion

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