SUMMARY

CEN/TC 248/WG 26, the working group on textile testing methods, has proposed a new work item for the revision of EN 17681-1:2025 (see attached).

This standard specifies test methods for the identification and quantification of certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in textile fibres, fabrics and coated fabrics.

MORE INFORMATION

The proposed revision aims to improve and expand the scope of the method, in particular to enable the detection of a broader range of PFAS, including fluorotelomer alcohols bound in fluoropolymers.

It is noted that the current version of the standard has limitations, as certain PFAS that are sensitive to alkaline hydrolysis cannot be reliably detected.

Moreover, this development responds to the position outlined in our joint statement on PFAS restriction, which called for an update of this specific test method.

NEXT STEPS

The Technical Committee is expected to formally vote on the proposed revision by 3 September 2026.

Following a positive vote and the commitment of at least five CEN National Standards Bodies (NSBs), experts will be nominated and the revision work will start.