NWSP

Nonwovens Standard Procedures (NWSP) are standardized test methods jointly developed and published by European Disposables and Nonwovens Association (EDANA) and Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry (INDA) to evaluate the performance and structure of nonwoven materials.

NWSP standards are continuously reviewed, and new amendments are published online to ensure harmonization of industry language and testing procedures across global markets. This harmonization supports consistent production, product descriptions, and testing practices worldwide.

What Are NWSP Standards?

NWSP standards have classifications that indicate the method and purpose of the test. Each NWSP standard is identified by a unique code. The digits indicate the test method, while the number following the “R” denotes the revision number since the standard’s introduction in 2005.

NWSP Material Testing Standards

• NWSP 020.4.R0: Specifies the rotating platform, double-head method for testing the abrasion resistance of nonwoven fabrics.
• NWSP 030.1.R0: Describes the use of a motor-driven diaphragm burst tester to determine the hydraulic bursting strength of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 090.2.R0: Outlines the Gurley stiffness method for measuring the rigidity of nonwoven fabrics.
• NWSP 090.3.R0: Details the Handle-O-Meter method, which evaluates the surface friction and flexibility, or handle, of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 100.1.R0: Specifies the Elmendorf Tear Test or falling pendulum method for determining the tear resistance of sheet materials.
• NWSP 100.2.R1: Describes the Trapezoid Procedure for measuring the tearing strength of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 100.3.R0: Covers the Single Rip Procedure for testing the tearing strength of nonwovens. 
• NWSP 110.1.R0: Outlines the grab strength test for measuring the breaking strength and elongation of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 110.3.R0: Specifies the Scott Bond method for testing the internal bond strength of paper.
• NWSP 110.4.R0: Describes the strip method for measuring the elongation and breaking force of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 110.5.R0: Details the Ball Burst Procedure for verifying the resistance of nonwoven fabrics to mechanical pressure.
• NWSP 120.1.R0: Specifies the use of a precision deadweight micrometer for measuring the thickness of nonwoven materials.
• NWSP 120.6.R0: Outlines the use of micrometry and a micrometer to measure the thickness of nonwovens.