Overview
ISO 6938:2012 - Textiles - Natural fibres - Generic names and definitions is an International Standard that defines the generic names and clear definitions of the most important natural fibres according to their constitution or origin. Published as the second edition (2012), it replaces the 1984 edition and provides an alphabetical list of common names, their equivalent standardized denominations, and corresponding index numbers. The standard covers animal, vegetable and mineral natural fibres and includes French-language equivalents where applicable.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Establishes generic names and definitions for natural fibres used in textiles, enabling consistent terminology across industry, trade and regulation.
- Types of fibres classified:
- Animal fibres: from silk glands (e.g., SILK, TASAR, MUGA, ERI, ANAPHE), molluscs (BYSSUS), and hair follicles (e.g., WOOL, CASHMERE, MOHAIR, ALPACA, many others).
- Vegetable fibres: subdivided into seed fibres (e.g., COTTON, KAPOK), bast fibres (e.g., FLAX, HEMP, JUTE, RAMIE), leaf fibres (e.g., SISAL, ABACA, PINEAPPLE LEAF) and fruit fibres (COIR).
- Mineral fibres: e.g., ASBESTOS (defined as fibrous natural silicate).
- Nomenclature rules: Provides standardized denominations and notes on allowable qualifiers (for example, certain silk types may be followed by the term “silk”; some animal names may be followed by “wool” and/or “hair”).
- Reference list: An alphabetical cross-reference listing common names, equivalent generic names and index numbers for easy lookup.
- Regulatory note: Generic names to be used can in some countries be governed by national regulations.
Applications and users
ISO 6938:2012 is practical for:
- Textile manufacturers and designers - consistent fibre naming in specifications and product data sheets.
- Retailers and brand managers - accurate labelling and marketing of natural-fibre products.
- Import/export and customs authorities - harmonized classification and documentation of textile goods.
- Testing and quality labs - unambiguous fibre identification and reporting.
- Standards developers and regulators - reference for drafting regulations or procurement rules.
- Supply chain and procurement teams - clearer supplier communication and contract terms.
Use cases include product labelling, technical specifications, standards harmonization, trade documentation, and educational/reference materials.
Related guidance
ISO 6938:2012 was prepared by ISO/TC 38 (Textiles) and complements other textile standards and fibre identification/testing guidance. Users should consult applicable national regulations and related textile testing standards when applying these generic names in compliance, labelling and reporting.
