Northern Technologies International (NTIC) 10-K14 Nov 142014 FY Annual reportFinancial data

Company Profile

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 14, 2014	Feb. 28, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'Northern Technologies International Corporation	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--08-31	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	4,515,397	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$83,300,000
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000875582	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Smaller Reporting Company	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Aug-14	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
CURRENT ASSETS:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$2,477,017	$4,314,258
Available for sale securities	5,519,766	'
Trade excluding joint ventures, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $40,000 and $20,000 at August 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	3,596,247	3,329,995
Trade joint ventures	951,286	859,434
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	2,612,899	2,446,017
Income taxes	762	144,939
Inventories	5,961,399	5,111,549
Prepaid expenses	411,226	258,765
Deferred income taxes	789,364	467,548
Total current assets	22,319,966	16,932,505
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	6,477,987	5,323,612
OTHER ASSETS:	'	'
Investments in joint ventures	22,961,989	24,702,981
Deferred income taxes	943,279	1,034,212
Patents and trademarks, net	1,197,700	1,060,639
Other	156,854	'
Total other assets	25,259,822	26,797,832
Total assets	54,057,775	49,053,949
CURRENT LIABILITIES:	'	'
Current portion of note payable (Note 8)	'	76,119
Accounts payable	2,225,029	1,830,729
Accrued liabilities:	'	'
Payroll and related benefits	1,847,246	1,277,942
Deferred joint venture royalties	288,000	288,000
Other	106,380	189,263
Total current liabilities	4,466,655	3,662,053
NOTE PAYABLE, NET OF CURRENT PORTION (Note 8)	'	857,295
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 16)	'	'
EQUITY:	'	'
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized 10,000 shares; none issued and outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $0.02 par value per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 4,504,552 and 4,432,036, respectively	90,092	88,641
Additional paid-in capital	12,676,546	11,701,942
Retained earnings	32,733,300	28,626,928
Accumulated other comprehensive income	253,925	316,161
Stockholdersâ€™ equity	45,753,863	40,733,672
Non-controlling interests	3,837,257	3,800,929
Total equity	49,591,120	44,534,601
Total liabilities and equity	$54,057,775	$49,053,949

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Trade excluding joint ventures, allowance for doubtful accounts (in Dollars)	$40,000	$20,000
Preferred stock, par value (in Dollars per share)	$0	$0
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000	10,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock par value (in Dollars per share)	$0.02	$0.02
Common stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	4,504,552	4,432,036
Common stock, shares outstanding	4,504,552	4,432,036

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
NET SALES:	'	'
Net sales, excluding joint ventures	$23,601,514	$19,724,205
Net sales, to joint ventures	3,224,594	2,777,659
Total net sales	26,826,108	22,501,864
Cost of goods sold	17,803,153	15,473,212
Gross profit	9,022,955	7,028,652
JOINT VENTURE OPERATIONS:	'	'
Equity in income from joint ventures	5,920,603	5,237,711
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	8,142,863	7,352,980
Total joint venture operations	14,063,466	12,590,691
OPERATING EXPENSES:	'	'
Selling expenses	5,221,738	4,845,676
General and administrative expenses	5,393,531	4,605,979
Expenses incurred in support of joint ventures	1,408,014	1,387,197
Research and development expenses	4,368,752	3,815,515
Total operating expenses	16,392,035	14,654,367
OPERATING INCOME	6,694,386	4,964,976
INTEREST INCOME	11,617	34,614
INTEREST EXPENSE	-47,322	-52,215
OTHER INCOME	4,393	670,126
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE	6,663,074	5,617,501
INCOME TAX EXPENSE	1,124,662	864,000
NET INCOME	5,538,412	4,753,501
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS	1,432,040	1,386,607
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC	$4,106,372	$3,366,894
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC PER COMMON SHARE:	'	'
Basic (in Dollars per share)	$0.92	$0.76
Diluted (in Dollars per share)	$0.90	$0.75
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES ASSUMED OUTSTANDING:	'	'
Basic (in Shares)	4,454,836	4,421,636
Diluted (in Shares)	4,579,498	4,475,895

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
	$5,538,412	$4,753,501
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME â€“ FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENT	-49,463	56,909
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	5,488,949	4,810,410
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS	1,444,813	1,404,938
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC	$4,044,136	$3,405,472

Consolidated_Statements_of_Equ

Consolidated Statements of Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]	Total
BALANCE at Aug. 31, 2012	$88,073	$11,130,966	$25,260,034	$277,583	$187,913	$36,944,569
BALANCE, shares (in Shares) at Aug. 31, 2012	4,403,656	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	444	207,910	'	'	'	208,354
Exercise of stock options (in Shares)	22,171	'	'	'	'	37,040
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	124	56,615	'	'	'	56,739
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan (in Shares)	6,209	'	'	'	'	'
Stock option expense	'	306,451	'	'	'	306,451
Effect of subsidiary consolidation	'	'	'	'	3,960,920	3,960,920
Dividend received by non-controlling interest	'	'	'	'	-1,752,842	-1,752,842
Comprehensive Income	'	'	3,366,894	38,578	1,404,938	4,810,410
BALANCE at Aug. 31, 2013	88,641	11,701,942	28,626,928	316,161	3,800,929	44,534,601
BALANCE, shares (in Shares) at Aug. 31, 2013	4,432,036	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	1,384	478,076	'	'	'	479,460
Exercise of stock options (in Shares)	69,184	'	'	'	'	74,000
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	67	42,513	'	'	'	42,580
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan (in Shares)	3,332	'	'	'	'	'
Stock option expense	'	454,015	'	'	'	454,015
Dividend received by non-controlling interest	'	'	'	'	-1,440,000	-1,440,000
Investment by non-controlling interest	'	'	'	'	31,515	31,515
Comprehensive Income	'	'	4,106,372	-62,236	1,444,813	5,488,949
BALANCE at Aug. 31, 2014	$90,092	$12,676,546	$32,733,300	$253,925	$3,837,257	$49,591,120
BALANCE, shares (in Shares) at Aug. 31, 2014	4,504,552	'	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Net income	$5,538,412	$4,753,501
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:	'	'
Stock-based compensation	454,015	306,451
Depreciation expense	454,889	435,678
Amortization expense	86,652	71,405
Loss on disposal of assets	472	84,396
Equity in income from joint ventures	-5,920,603	-5,237,711
Deferred income taxes	-230,883	124,935
Increase in allowance on doubtful accounts	20,000	'
Receivables:	'	'
Trade, excluding joint ventures	-249,965	-894,888
Trade, joint ventures	-91,852	-124,891
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	-166,882	213,002
Income taxes	150,764	-98,427
Inventories	-825,176	-1,017,188
Prepaid expenses and other	-62,969	363,337
Accounts payable	365,797	78,623
Income tax payable	-4,191	8,435
Accrued liabilities	473,126	-311,693
Net cash used in operating activities	-8,394	-1,245,035
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Investment in joint venture	-110,988	'
Dividends received from joint ventures	7,431,306	3,155,737
Additions to property and equipment	-1,602,441	-1,488,059
Effect of subsidiary consolidation on cash	'	1,612,768
Purchase of available for sale securities	-6,019,766	'
Proceeds from sale of available for sale securities	500,000	'
Additions to patents	-224,185	-255,259
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	-26,074	3,025,187
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Repayment of note payable	-933,414	-76,119
Dividend received by non-controlling interest	-1,440,000	-1,752,842
Investment by non-controlling interest	36,956	'
Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan	42,580	56,739
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	479,460	208,354
Net cash used in financing activities	-1,814,418	-1,563,867
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH:	11,646	-39,574
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	-1,837,239	176,711
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR	4,314,258	4,137,547
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR	$2,477,017	$4,314,258

Note_1_Nature_of_Business_and_

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	1. NATURE OF BUSINESS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

	Nature of Business – Northern Technologies International Corporation and Subsidiaries (the Company) develops and markets proprietary environmentally beneficial products and services in over 60 countries either directly or via a network of joint ventures, independent distributors and agents. The Company’s primary business is corrosion prevention marketed mainly under the ZERUST® brand. The Company has been selling its proprietary ZERUST® rust and corrosion inhibiting products and services to the automotive, electronics, electrical, mechanical, military and retail consumer markets for over 35 years, and more recently, has targeted and expanded into the oil and gas industry. The Company also sells a portfolio of biobased and compostable (fully biodegradable) polymer resins and finished products under the Natur-Tec® brand. These products are intended to reduce the Company’s customers’ carbon footprint and provide environmentally sound disposal options.

	The Company participates, either directly or indirectly, in 20 active joint venture arrangements in North America, Europe and Asia. Each of these joint ventures generally manufactures and markets products in the geographic territory to which it is assigned. While most of the Company’s joint ventures exclusively sell rust and corrosion inhibiting products, some of the joint ventures also sell the Company’s Natur-Tec® resin compounds and finished products. The profits of joint ventures are shared by the respective joint venture owners in accordance with their respective ownership percentages. The Company typically owns 50% or less of its joint venture entities and does not control the decisions of these entities, including dividend declaration or amount in any given year.

	The Company has evaluated events occurring after the date of the consolidated financial statements for events requiring recording or disclosure in the financial statements.

	Principles of Consolidation - The Company evaluates its voting and variable interests in entities on a qualitative and quantitative basis. The Company consolidates entities when it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact an entity’s economic success and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to the entity. All such relationships are evaluated on an ongoing basis. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Northern Technologies International Corporation, its wholly owned subsidiary, Northern Technologies Holding Company, LLC, its majority owned subsidiary in Brazil, Zerust Prevenção de Corrosão S.A. (Zerust Brazil), its majority owned subsidiary in India, Natur-Tec India Private Limited (Natur-Tec India) and its majority owned holding company, NTI ASEAN LLC (NTI Asean). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements do not include the accounts of any of the Company’s joint ventures.

	Non-Controlling Interests – The Company owns 85% of Zerust Brazil. The remaining 15% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company owns 60% of NTI Asean. The remaining 40% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company owns 90% of Natur-Tec India. The remaining 10% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company allocates gains and losses to the non-controlling interest even when such allocation might result in a deficit balance, reducing the losses attributed to the controlling interest, changes in ownership interests are treated as equity transactions if control is maintained.

	Net Sales –The Company includes net sales to its joint ventures and net sales to unaffiliated customers as separate line items on its consolidated statements of operations. There are no sales originating from the Company’s joint ventures included in the amount, as the Company’s investments in its joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.

	Revenue Recognition – The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its products when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered, the price is fixed and determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. These criteria are met when risk of loss and title pass to the customer, distributor or joint venture entity. Sales and use taxes charged to customers are reported on a net basis.

	Deferred Joint Venture Revenue – The Company periodically sponsors a worldwide joint venture conference, in which all of its joint ventures are invited to participate. It defers a portion of its service fees received from its joint ventures in each accounting period leading up to the next conference, reflecting that the Company has not earned portions of the payments received. It is anticipated that the next joint venture conference will be held next year or the year thereafter. At both August 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had deferred $288,000 of joint venture fees for services related to this future conference, which represents the amount that the Company expects to spend to hold the conference. This amount is based on the historical experience of the Company, current conditions, and the intentions of the Company’s management. The Company does not anticipate deferring any additional service fees until after the next conference.

	Accounts Receivable – Payment terms for the Company’s unaffiliated customers are determined based on credit risk and vary by customer. The Company typically offers standard payment terms to unaffiliated customers of net 30 days. The Company does not accrue interest on past due accounts receivable. The Company reviews the credit histories of its customers before extending unsecured credit. The Company presents accounts and notes receivable, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Each quarter, the Company prepares an analysis of its ability to collect outstanding receivables that provides a basis for an allowance estimate for doubtful accounts. In doing so, the Company evaluates the age of its receivables, past collection history, current financial conditions of key customers and its joint ventures, and economic conditions. Based on this evaluation, the Company establishes a reserve for specific accounts and notes receivable that it believes are uncollectible, as well as an estimate of uncollectible receivables not specifically known. The Company believes that an analysis of historical trends and its current knowledge of potential collection problems provide the Company with sufficient information to establish a reasonable estimate for an allowance for doubtful accounts. In the event the Company determined that a smaller or larger uncollectible accounts reserve is appropriate, the Company would record a credit or charge to selling expense in the period that it made such a determination. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $40,000 and $20,000 at August 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accounts are considered past due based on terms agreed upon between the Company and the customer. Accounts receivable are written-off only after all collection attempts have failed and are based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer.

	Receivables from Joint Ventures – Trade receivables from joint ventures arise from sales of products the Company makes to its joint ventures. Payment terms for the Company’s joint ventures also are determined based on credit risk; however, additional consideration also is given to the individual joint venture due to the transportation time associated with ocean delivery of most products and certain other factors. Generally, accounts receivable from the Company’s joint ventures unpaid after 90 days are considered past due. The Company does not accrue interest on past due balances. The Company periodically reviews amounts due from its joint ventures for collectability, and based on past experience and continuous review of the balances due, has determined an allowance for doubtful accounts related to its joint venture receivables is not necessary.

	Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures – The Company provides certain services to its joint ventures including consulting, legal, travel, insurance, technical and marketing services. The Company receives fees for the services it provides to its joint ventures. The fees for services received by the Company from its joint ventures are generally based on either a flat fee or a percentage of net sales by the Company’s joint ventures depending on local laws and tax regulations. The Company recognizes revenues related to fees for services provided to its joint ventures when earned, amounts are determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Under the Company’s agreements with its joint ventures, amounts are earned when product is shipped from joint venture facilities. The Company reviews the financial situation of each of its joint ventures to assist in the likelihood of collections on amounts earned. The Company elects to account for these fees on a cash basis for certain joint ventures if uncertainty exists surrounding the collection of such fees.

	Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company includes as cash and cash equivalents highly liquid, short-term investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased, which are readily convertible into known amounts of cash. The Company maintains its cash in high quality financial institutions. The balances, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.

	Available for sale securities – Available for sale securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized holding gains and losses on available for sale securities are excluded from earnings.

	Inventories - Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market.

	Property and Depreciation - Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated service lives of the various assets as follows:

		Buildings and improvements (years)	5	-	30
		Machinery and equipment (years	3	-	10

	Investments in Joint Ventures - Investments in the Company’s joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, investments are initially recorded at cost and are adjusted for dividends, distributed and undistributed earnings and losses, changes in foreign currency exchange rates and additional investments. In the event the Company’s share of joint venture’s cumulative losses exceed the Company’s investment balance, the balance is reported at zero value until proportionate income exceeds the losses. The Company assesses its joint ventures for impairment on an annual basis as of August 31 of each year as part of its fiscal year end analysis. In addition to the annual review for impairment, the Company reviews the operating results of each joint venture on a quarterly basis in comparison to its historical operating results and its accrual of fees for services provided to joint ventures. If the operating results of a joint venture do not meet financial performance expectations, an additional evaluation is performed on the joint venture. If an investment were determined to be impaired, then a reserve is created to reflect the impairment on the financial results of the Company. The Company’s evaluation of its investments in joint ventures requires the Company to make assumptions about future cash flows of its joint ventures. These assumptions require significant judgment and actual results may differ from assumed or estimated amounts. All investments in joint ventures have positive equity as of August 31, 2014.

	Recoverability of Long-Lived Assets - The Company reviews its long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The Company determines potential impairment by comparing the carrying value of the assets with expected net cash flows expected to be provided by operating activities of the business or related products. If the sum of the expected undiscounted future net cash flows is less than the carrying value, the Company evaluates if an impairment loss should be recognized. An impairment loss is measured by comparing the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset.

	Income Taxes - The Company utilizes the liability method of accounting for income taxes which requires an asset and liability approach to financial accounting and reporting for income taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

	The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. In the event the Company determines that it would be able to realize its deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, the Company would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

	The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby the Company determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position and those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. The Company recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.

	Foreign Currency Translation (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) - The functional currency of Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India and each unconsolidated international joint venture is the applicable local currency. The translation of the applicable foreign currencies into U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using an average monthly exchange rate. Translation gains or losses are reported as an element of other comprehensive income.

	The Company (excluding Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India, NTI Asean and its joint ventures) conducts all foreign transactions based on the U.S. dollar. Since investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method, any changes in foreign currency exchange rates are reflected as a foreign currency translation adjustment and does not change the equity in income from joint ventures reflected in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

	Fair Value of Financial Instruments – The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, available for sale securities, short-term accounts and notes receivable, notes payable, trade accounts payables, and other accrued expenses approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The fair value of the Company’s former long-term debt approximated the carrying values based upon current market rates of interest.

	Shipping and Handling - The Company records all amounts billed to customers in a sales transaction related to shipping and handling as sales. The Company records costs related to shipping and handling in cost of goods sold.

	Research and Development - The Company expenses all costs related to product research and development as incurred. The costs related to product research and development are the net amount after being reduced by reimbursements related to certain research and development contracts of $45,788 and $274,728 for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively. The Company accrues proceeds received under such contracts and offsets research and development expenses incurred in equal installments over the timelines associated with completion of the contracts’ specific objectives and milestones.

	Stock-Based Compensation – The Company recognizes compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions, including grants of employee stock options and transactions under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan, in its consolidated financial statements. That cost is measured based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock options and other stock-based awards based on the grant-date fair value of the award, and recognizes the cost over the period the employee is required to provide services for the award (generally the vesting term).

	Use of Estimates - The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Note_2_Recently_Issued_Account

Note 2 - Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
Note 2 - Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Aug. 31, 2014
Table Text Block [Abstract]	'
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]	'
	2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued revised guidance on revenue recognition. The standard provides a single revenue recognition model which is intended to improve comparability over a range of industries, companies and geographical boundaries and will also result in enhanced disclosures. The changes are effective for our fiscal year ended August 31, 2017, and interim periods within that year. We are currently reviewing the revised guidance and assessing the potential impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Note_3_NTI_ASEAN

Note 3 - NTI ASEAN	12 Months Ended
Note 3 - NTI ASEAN	Aug. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	3. NTI ASEAN

	NTI ASEAN LLC (NTI Asean) is an entity that holds investments in eight entities operating in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, including the following countries: China, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.

	Prior to September 1, 2012, the Company owned 50% of the equity and voting rights of NTI Asean and accounted for its investment using the equity method, as its ownership was considered to be less than a majority. On September 1, 2012, the Company obtained an additional 10% ownership interest in NTI Asean in exchange for a license agreement, and thereafter holds 60% of the equity and voting rights of NTI Asean.

	The Company accounted for the transaction resulting in the additional ownership as a business combination. Beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company consolidated the results of NTI Asean. Immediately prior to the transaction, the Company re-measured the fair value of NTI Asean and determined that there was no difference between the fair value and the book value of the entity. As a result, there was no accounting impact related to the business combination in the consolidated statements of operations.

	The Company determined the fair value of NTI Asean using the capitalized income method, including a capitalization rate of 25%. The allocation of the total transaction amount was as follow:

	Net assets acquired (liabilities assumed):
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,613,000
	Accounts receivables		1,342,000
	Investments in joint ventures		4,967,000
	Value of assets	$	7,922,000
	Purchase price:
	Fair value of non-controlling interest	$	3,961,000
	Value of previously held interest		3,961,000
	Total consideration	$	7,922,000

Note_4_Inventories

Note 4 - Inventories	12 Months Ended
Note 4 - Inventories	Aug. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	4. INVENTORIES

	Inventories consisted of the following:

		31-Aug-14		31-Aug-13
	Production materials	$	1,242,649	$	1,096,693
	Finished goods		4,718,750		4,014,856
		$	5,961,399	$	5,111,549

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_

Note 5 - Property and Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
Note 5 - Property and Equipment, Net	Aug. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

	Property and equipment, net consisted of the following:

		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Land	$	310,365		$	310,365
	Buildings and improvements		5,695,268			4,613,879
	Machinery and equipment		3,713,145			3,189,671
			9,718,778			8,113,915
	Less accumulated depreciation		(3,240,791	)		(2,790,303	)
		$	6,477,987		$	5,323,612

Note_6_Patents_and_Trademarks_

Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	6. PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS, NET

	Patents and trademarks, net consisted of the following:

		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Patents and trademarks	$	2,287,840		$	2,064,128
	Less accumulated amortization		(1,090,140	)		(1,003,489	)
		$	1,197,700		$	1,060,639

	Patent and trademark costs are amortized over seven years. Costs incurred related to patents and trademarks are capitalized until filed and approved, at which time the amounts capitalized to date are amortized and any further costs, including maintenance costs, are expensed as incurred. Amortization expense is estimated to approximate $80,000 in each of the next five fiscal years.

Note_7_Investments_in_Joint_Ve

Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures	12 Months Ended
Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures	Aug. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	7. INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES

	The financial statements of the Company’s foreign joint ventures are initially prepared using the accounting principles accepted in the respective joint ventures’ countries of domicile. Amounts related to foreign joint ventures reported in the below tables and the accompanying financial statements have subsequently been adjusted to conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America in all material respects. All material profits recorded on sales from the Company to its joint ventures have been eliminated for financial reporting purposes.

	Financial information from the audited and unaudited financial statements of the Company’s joint venture in Germany, Excor Korrosionsschutz – Technologien und Produkte GmbH (EXCOR), joint venture in China and all of the Company’s other joint ventures, are summarized as follows:

		31-Aug-14
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Current assets	$	61,491,957	$	24,361,157	$	9,774,680	$	27,356,120
	Total assets		65,466,964		26,652,165		9,793,803		29,020,996
	Current liabilities		17,542,634		3,512,143		4,438,380		9,592,111
	Noncurrent liabilities		1,929,488		—		868,377		1,061,111
	Joint ventures’ equity		45,994,842		23,140,022		4,487,046		18,367,775
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity		22,961,989		11,570,013		2,243,524		9,148,452
	Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	$	20,540,523	$	11,539,108	$	2,193,524	$	6,807,891

		31-Aug-13
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Current assets	$	63,052,410	$	25,955,136	$	11,200,355	$	25,896,919
	Total assets		68,417,142		28,391,787		11,226,755		28,798,600
	Current liabilities		16,107,597		3,572,004		3,080,118		9,455,475
	Noncurrent liabilities		2,488,057		—		871,886		1,616,171
	Joint ventures’ equity		49,821,488		24,819,783		7,274,751		17,726,954
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity		24,702,981		12,409,893		3,637,375		8,655,713
	Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	$	22,281,510	$	12,378,988	$	3,587,375	$	6,315,147

		Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2014
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Net sales	$	118,848,890	$	39,944,812	$	15,920,685	$	62,983,393
	Gross profit		56,960,918		21,045,091		7,463,168		28,452,659
	Net income		11,842,338		7,906,693		1,274,487		2,661,158
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures	$	5,920,603	$	3,950,915	$	626,763	$	1,342,925

		Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2013
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Net sales	$	113,189,068	$	36,476,544	$	15,161,289	$	61,551,235
	Gross profit		52,058,609		19,470,322		7,153,395		25,434,891
	Net income		10,650,542		7,009,897		1,157,995		2,482,650
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures	$	5,237,711	$	3,507,057	$	579,376	$	1,151,278

	The Company records expenses that are directly attributable to the joint ventures on its consolidated statements of operations on the line “Expenses incurred in support of joint ventures”. The expenses include items such as employee compensation and benefits, travel, consulting, legal and laboratory supplies and testing expenses.

	During fiscal 2014, NTI Asean invested $100,988 in its joint venture in Singapore. The Company did not make any other joint venture investments during fiscal 2014.

	During fiscal 2014, the Company agreed to sell its indirect ownership interest in Mütec GmbH (Mütec), one of the Company’s joint ventures in Germany which manufactures proprietary electronic sensing instruments. As of August 31, 2014, $156,854 is due to the Company related to this transaction.

	During fiscal 2013, the Company obtained an additional 10% ownership interest in NTI Asean in exchange for a license agreement. The Company accounted for the transaction resulting in the additional ownership as a business combination. Beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company consolidated the results of NTI Asean. Immediately prior to the transaction, the Company re-measured the fair value of NTI Asean and determined that there was no difference between the fair value and the book value of the entity. As a result, there was no accounting impact related to the business combination in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company did not make any other joint venture investments during fiscal 2013.

Note_8_Corporate_Debt

Note 8 - Corporate Debt	12 Months Ended
Note 8 - Corporate Debt	Aug. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	8. CORPORATE DEBT

	As of August 31, 2013, Northern Technologies Holding Company, LLC (NTI LLC) had a term loan with a principal amount of $933,413 outstanding that NTI LLC obtained from PNC Bank, National Association (PNC Bank) in connection with the purchase of NTIC’s corporate headquarters in September 2006. This term loan was repaid in full on January 3, 2014.

	The Company has a revolving line of credit with PNC Bank of $3,000,000. No amounts were outstanding under the line of credit as of both August 31, 2014 and August 31, 2013. At the option of the Company, outstanding advances under the line of credit bear interest at either (a) an annual rate based on LIBOR plus 2.15% for the applicable LIBOR interest period selected by the Company or (b) at the rate publicly announced by PNC Bank from time to time as its prime rate. Interest is payable in arrears (a) for the portion of advances bearing interest under the prime rate on the last day of each month during the term thereof and (b) for the portion of advances bearing interest under the LIBOR option on the last day of the respective LIBOR interest period selected for such advance. Any unpaid interest is payable on the maturity date. The revolving line of credit is secured by cash, receivables and inventory.

	The line of credit is governed under a loan agreement. The loan agreement contains standard covenants, including affirmative financial covenants, such as the maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, and negative covenants, which, among other things, limit the incurrence of additional indebtedness, loans and equity investments, disposition of assets, mergers and consolidations and other matters customarily restricted in such agreements. Under the loan agreement, the Company is subject to a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.10:1.00. As of August 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.

	On December 31, 2013, PNC Bank extended the maturity date of the line of credit from January 8, 2014 to January 7, 2015. It is anticipated that the line of credit will be extended again prior to the January 7, 2015 maturity date.

Note_9_Stockholders_Equity

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	9. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

	During fiscal 2014, the Company did not purchase or retire any shares of its common stock. The following stock options to purchase shares of common stock were exercised during fiscal 2014:

	Options		Exercise
	Exercised		Price
		60,000	$	7.65
		14,000		8.57

	The total intrinsic value of the options exercised during fiscal 2014 was $890,955.

	During fiscal 2013, the Company did not purchase or retire any shares of its common stock. The following stock options to purchase shares of common stock were exercised during fiscal 2013:

	Options		Exercise
	Exercised		Price
		25,140	$	9.95
		4,000		12.84
		4,000		8.57
		1,734		7.65
		1,500		9.76
		666		7.75

	The total intrinsic value of the options exercised during fiscal 2013 was $45,533.

Note_10_Net_Income_Per_Common_

Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share	Aug. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	'
	10. NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE

	Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net income per share assumes the exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method, if dilutive.

	Options to purchase shares of common stock of 0 and 22,000 were excluded from the computation of common share equivalents for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively, as the exercise prices of such options were greater than market price of a share of common stock.

	The following is a reconciliation of the earnings per share computation for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013:

	Numerator:	31-Aug-14		31-Aug-13
	Net income attributable to NTIC	$	4,106,372	$	3,366,894

	Denominator:
	Basic – weighted shares outstanding		4,454,836		4,421,636
	Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options		124,662		54,259
	Diluted – weighted shares outstanding		4,579,498		4,475,895

	Basic earnings per share:	$	0.92	$	0.76
	Diluted earnings per share:	$	0.9	$	0.75

	The dilutive impact summarized above relates to the periods when the average market price of Company stock exceeded the exercise price of the potentially dilutive option securities granted. Earnings per common share were based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the periods when computing the basic earnings per share. When dilutive, stock options are included as equivalents using the treasury stock market method when computing the diluted earnings per share. All options outstanding as of August 31, 2014 are dilutive.

Note_11_StockBased_Compensatio

Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	'
	11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

	The Company has two stock-based compensation plans under which stock options and other stock-based awards have been granted, the Northern Technologies International Corporation Amended and Restated 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2007 Plan) and the Northern Technologies International Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the ESPP). The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and the Board of Directors administer these plans.

	The 2007 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, stock unit awards, performance awards and stock bonuses to eligible recipients to enable the Company and its subsidiaries to attract and retain qualified individuals through opportunities for equity participation in the Company, and to reward those individuals who contribute to the achievement of the Company’s economic objectives. Subject to adjustment as provided in the 2007 Plan, up to a maximum of 800,000 shares of the Company’s common stock are issuable under the 2007 Plan. Options granted under the 2007 Plan generally have a term of ten years and become exercisable over a three- or four-year period beginning on the one-year anniversary of the date of grant. Options are granted at per share exercise prices equal to the market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The company issues new shares upon the exercise of options. As of August 31, 2014, only stock options and stock bonuses had been granted under the 2007 Plan.

	The maximum number of shares of common stock of the Company available for issuance under the ESPP is 100,000 shares, subject to adjustment as provided in the ESPP. The ESPP provides for six-month offering periods beginning on September 1 and March 1 of each year. The purchase price of the shares is 90% of the lower of the fair market value of common stock at the beginning or end of the offering period. This discount may not exceed the maximum discount rate permitted for plans of this type under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The ESPP is compensatory for financial reporting purposes.

	The fair value of option grants is determined at date of grant, using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the assumptions listed below. The volatility factor used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model is based on historical stock price fluctuations and the risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. treasury rates appropriate for the expected term. Dividend yield and expected volatility are estimated using historical amounts that are anticipated to be consistent with current values. Expected life of the option is based on the life of the option agreements. Based on these valuations, the Company recognized compensation expense of $454,015 and $306,451 during fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the options that vested during such time period. As of August 31, 2014, the total compensation cost for nonvested options not yet recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations was $286,584. Stock-based compensation expense of $207,331 is expected to be recognized during fiscal 2015, based on outstanding options as of August 31, 2014. Future option grants will impact the compensation expense recognized. Stock-based compensation expense is included in general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of operations.

	The Company currently estimates a ten percent forfeiture rate for stock options, but will continue to review this estimate in future periods.

	The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions and results for the grants:

		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Dividend yield		0	%			0.00%
	Expected volatility		47.4	%			48.00%
	Expected life of option (years)		10			5	-	10
	Weighted average risk-free interest rate		1.39	%			0.71%

	Stock option activity during the periods indicated is as follows:

		Number of			Weighted Average				Aggregate
		Shares (#)			Exercise Price				Intrinsic Value
	Outstanding at August 31, 2012		203,873		$	10.01
	Options granted		118,294			10.25
	Options exercised		(37,040	)		9.96
	Options terminated		(24,500	)		13.12

	Outstanding at August 31, 2013		260,627		$	9.84
	Options granted		56,373			14.83
	Options exercised		(74,000	)		7.82
	Options terminated		(4,000	)		8.57

	Outstanding at August 31, 2014		239,000		$	11.66			$	2,163,147

	Exercisable at August 31, 2014		136,731		$	10.83			$	1,351,499

	The weighted average per share fair value of options granted during fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 was $8.57 and $5.53, respectively. The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding as of August 31, 2014 and 2013 was 5.92 years and 4.52 years, respectively.

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information	12 Months Ended
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information	Aug. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	12. GEOGRAPHIC AND SEGMENT INFORMATION

	Net sales by geographic location as a percentage of total consolidated net sales were as follows:

			Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
			2014				2013
	Inside the U.S.A. to unaffiliated customers			66.2	%			70.7	%
	Outside the U.S.A. to:
	Joint ventures in which the Company is a shareholder directly and indirectly			12.7	%			13.4	%
	Unaffiliated customers			21.1	%			15.9	%
				100	%			100	%

	Net sales by geographic location are based on the location of the customer.

	Fees for services provided to joint ventures by geographic location as a percentage of total fees for services provided to joint ventures during fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 were as follows:

			Fiscal 2014				% of Total Fees			Fiscal 2013		% of Total Fees
							for Services					for Services
							Provided to Joint					Provided to Joint
							Ventures in Fiscal					Ventures in
							2014					Fiscal 2013
	China		$	2,118,018				26	%	$	2,063,369		28.1	%
	Germany			1,032,234				12.7	%		1,004,958		13.7	%
	Japan			669,522				8.2	%		723,977		9.8	%
	Poland			652,291				8	%		525,282		7.1	%
	Thailand			604,316				7.4	%		621,807		8.4	%
	France			508,705				6.2	%		496,897		6.8	%
	Sweden			440,117				5.4	%		415,547		5.7	%
	United Kingdom			385,294				4.7	%		236,125		3.2	%
	India			364,918				4.5	%		—		0	%
	Finland			355,391				4.4	%		321,256		4.4	%
	Korea			315,916				3.9	%		393,307		5.3	%
	Czech			288,367				3.6	%		210,827		2.9	%
	Other			407,775				5	%		339,628		4.6	%
			$	8,142,863				100	%	$	7,352,980		100	%

	The following table sets forth the Company’s net sales for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 by segment:

			Fiscal 2014				Fiscal 2013			$		%
			Fiscal 2014				Fiscal 2013			Change		Change
	ZERUST® net sales		$	23,845,288			$	20,457,198		$	3,388,090		16.6	%
	Natur-Tec® net sales			2,980,820				2,044,666			936,154		45.8	%
	Total net sales		$	26,826,108			$	22,501,864		$	4,324,244		19.2	%

	The following table sets forth the Company’s cost of goods sold for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 by segment:

			Fiscal 2014				% of Product			Fiscal 2013		% of Product
			Fiscal 2014				Sales*			Fiscal 2013		Sales*
	Direct cost of goods sold
	ZERUST®		$	12,941,234				54.3	%	$	11,408,604		55.8	%
	Natur-Tec®			2,234,736				75	%		1,731,398		84.7	%
	Indirect cost of goods sold			2,627,183				—			2,333,210		—
	Total net cost of goods sold		$	17,803,153				66.4	%	$	15,473,212		68.8	%

	*	The percent of segment sales is calculated by dividing the direct cost of sales for each individual segment category by the net sales for each segment category.

	The Company utilizes product net sales and direct and indirect cost of goods sold for each product in reviewing the financial performance of a product type. Further allocation of Company expenses or assets, aside from amounts presented in the tables above, is not utilized in evaluating product performance, nor does such allocation occur for internal financial reporting.

	Sales to the Company’s joint ventures are included in the foregoing geographic and segment information, however, sales by the Company’s joint ventures to other parties are not included. The foregoing geographic and segment information represents only sales and cost of goods sold recognized directly by the Company.

	The geographical distribution of key financial statement data is as follows:

			At August 31, 2014				At August 31, 2013
Brazil		$	1,429,054			$	1,419,543
India			363,894
North America			52,264,827				47,634,406
Total assets		$	54,057,775			$	49,053,949

		Fiscal Year Ended				Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Aug-14				31-Aug-13
Brazil		$	3,079,695			$	2,394,486
India			581,535				--
North America			23,164,878				20,107,378
Total net sales		$	26,826,108			$	22,501,864

		Fiscal Year Ended				Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Aug-14				31-Aug-13
Brazil		$	231,054			$	(273,246	)
India			15,132				--
North America			6,448,200				5,238,222
Total operating income		$	6,694,386			$	4,964,976

Total assets located in Brazil and India primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, customer receivables and inventory. These assets are periodically reviewed to assure the net realizable value from the estimated future production based on forecasted sales exceeds the carrying value of the assets.

Note_13_Retirement_Plan

Note 13 - Retirement Plan	12 Months Ended
Note 13 - Retirement Plan	Aug. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	13. RETIREMENT PLAN

	The Company has a 401(k) employee savings plan. Employees who meet certain age and service requirements may elect to contribute up to 15% of their salaries. The Company typically contributes the lesser of 50% of the participant’s contributions or 3.5% of the employee’s salary. The Company recognized expense for the savings plan of $188,207 and $175,016 for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively.

Note_14_Related_Party_Transact

Note 14 - Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
Note 14 - Related Party Transactions	Aug. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

	During fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, the Company made consulting payments totaling $100,000 per year to Bioplastic Polymers LLC, an entity owned by Ramani Narayan, Ph.D., a director of the Company, and paid royalties of $14,388 and $10,244, respectively, based on net sales of the Company’s bioplastics products.

Note_15_Income_Taxes

Note 15 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
Note 15 - Income Taxes	Aug. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	15. INCOME TAXES

	The provision for income taxes for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2014 and 2013 consists of the following:

			Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
			2014				2013
	Current:
	Federal		$	—			$	—
	State			19,000				8,000
	Foreign			1,200,000				731,000
				1,219,000				739,000
	Deferred:
	Federal			(89,000	)			118,000
	State			(6,000	)			7,000
	Foreign			—				—
				(95,000	)			125,000
			$	1,124,000			$	864,000

	Reconciliations of the expected federal income tax at the statutory rate with the provisions for income taxes for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

			Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
			2014				2013
	Tax computed at statutory rates		$	2,265,000			$	1,910,000
	State income tax, net of federal benefit			13,000				15,000
	Tax effect on equity in (income) loss of international joint ventures			(2,055,000	)			(1,781,000	)
	Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures			3,285,000				1,732,000
	Tax effect of foreign operations			1,131,000				807,000
	Foreign tax credit			(3,710,000	)			(2,524,000	)
	Research and development credit			(88,000	)			(364,000	)
	Valuation allowance			687,000				1,635,000
	Tax-exempt income			-				(230,000	)
	Non-controlling interest in partnership income			(440,000	)			(425,000	)
	Other			36,000				89,000
			$	1,124,000			$	864,000

	The Company has not provided U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes with respect to its portion of the cumulative undistributed earnings of foreign joint ventures that are essentially permanent in duration. The Company’s portion of the cumulative undistributed earnings of foreign joint ventures that are essentially permanent in duration were $20,540,523 and $22,281,510 at August 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. If some or all of the undistributed earnings of the joint ventures are remitted to the Company in the future, income taxes, if any, after the application of foreign tax credits will be provided at that time. To the extent undistributed earnings of the Company’s joint ventures are distributed in the future, it is not expected to result in any material additional income tax liability after the application of foreign tax credits.

	The tax effect of the temporary differences and tax carryforwards comprising the net deferred taxes shown on the consolidated balance sheets at August 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

			August 31,
			2014				2013
	Current:
	Accrued bonus		$	524,000			$	277,300
	Allowance for doubtful accounts			14,500				7,200
	Inventory costs			100,800				24,600
	Prepaid expenses and other			(40,600	)			(31,200	)
	Other accrued expenses			86,800				85,500
	Deferred joint venture expenses			104,100				104,100
	Total current		$	789,600			$	467,500

	Noncurrent:
	Property and equipment		$	(171,200	)		$	(165,100	)
	Goodwill			27,300				35,200
	Other intangible assets			825,200				914,000
	Nonqualified stock options			260,400				248,500
	Capital loss carryforward			50,900				-
	Foreign tax credit carryforward			4,141,100				4,253,900
	Research and development credit			1,910,800				1,823,200
	New hire retention credit			10,600				10,600
				7,055,100				7,120,300
	Valuation allowance			(6,113,400	)			(6,086,100	)
	Total noncurrent		$	941,700			$	1,034,200

At August 31, 2014, the Company had foreign tax credit carryforwards of approximately $4,141,100, of which approximately $602,900 will expire if not utilized by August 31, 2015. In addition, the Company had federal and state tax credit carryforwards of $1,921,400 at August 31, 2014 which begin to expire in fiscal 2019. These federal and state tax credit carryforwards consist primarily of federal and Minnesota research and development credit carryforwards. The Company also has capital loss carryforwards of $50,900 at August 31, 2014 which begin to expire in fiscal 2019.

As of August 31, 2014, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $4,141,100 with respect to the foreign tax credit carryforwards. In addition, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $1,919,800 with respect to federal and state tax credit carryforwards, and $50,900 with respect to capital loss carryforwards.

As of August 31, 2013, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $4,253,900 with respect to the foreign tax credit carryforwards. In addition, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $1,832,200 with respect to federal and state tax credit carryforwards.

The Company records a tax valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of its deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company determined based on all available evidence, including historical data and projections of future results, that it is more likely than not that all of its deferred tax assets, except for its foreign tax credit carryforward, federal and Minnesota research and development credit carryforwards, and capital loss carryforwards will be fully realized. The Company determined that its deferred tax asset related to foreign tax credit carryforwards will not be realized due to insufficient federal taxable income within the carryforward period and the fact that for ordering purposes the foreign tax credit carryforwards are not allowed to be used until after any current year foreign tax credits are utilized. In addition, based on historical data and future projections, the Company determined that it is more likely than not that its deferred tax asset related to federal and Minnesota research and development credit carryforwards will not be realized due to insufficient federal and Minnesota taxable income within the carryforward period after considering the foreign tax credit usage. The Company determined that it is more likely than not that its deferred tax asset related to capital loss carryforwards will not be realized due to lack of available capital gains required to realize the capital loss carryforwards.

The following is a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits:

		Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
		2014				2013
Gross unrecognized tax benefits – beginning balance		$	170,000			$	131,000
Gross increases - prior period tax positions			2,000				19,000
Gross increases – current period tax positions			8,000				20,000
Gross unrecognized tax benefits – ending balance		$	180,000			$	170,000

The entire amount of unrecognized tax benefits would affect the effective tax rate. It is not expected that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change significantly in the next 12 months.

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of the Company’s income tax provision. Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability line in the consolidated balance sheet. There was no liability for the payment of interest and penalties at both August 31, 2014 and August 31, 2013.

The Company is subject to taxation in the United States and various states and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, as of August 31, 2014, the Company is no longer subject to federal, state, local, or foreign examinations by tax authorities for years prior to August 31, 2011.

Note_16_Commitments_and_Contin

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies	Aug. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	16. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

	On August 19, 2014, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company approved the material terms of an annual bonus plan for the Company’s executive officers as well as certain officers and employees for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2015. For fiscal 2015 as in past years, the total amount available under the bonus plan for all plan participants, including executive officers, is dependent upon the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes and other income, as adjusted to take into account amounts to be paid under the bonus plan and certain other adjustments (Adjusted EBITOI). Each plan participant’s percentage of the overall bonus pool is based upon the number of plan participants, the individual’s annual base salary and the individual’s position and level of responsibility within the company. In the case of each of the Company’s executive officer participants, 75% of the amount of their individual bonus payout will be determined based upon the Company’s actual EBITOI for fiscal 2015 compared to a pre-established target EBITOI for fiscal 2015 and 25% of the payout will be determined based upon such executive officer’s achievement of certain pre-established individual performance objectives. The payment of bonuses under the plan are discretionary and may be paid to executive officer participants in both cash and shares of NTIC common stock, the exact amount and percentages will be determined by the Company’s Board of Directors, upon recommendation of the Compensation Committee, after the completion of the Company’s consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2015.

	On August 22, 2013, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company approved the material terms of an annual bonus plan for the Company’s executive officers as well as certain officers and employees for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2014. For fiscal 2014, as in past years, the total amount available under the bonus plan for all plan participants, including executive officers, was dependent upon the Company’s Adjusted EBITOI. Each plan participant’s percentage of the overall bonus pool was based upon the number of plan participants, the individual’s annual base salary and the individual’s position and level of responsibility within the company. In the case of each of the Company’s executive officer participants, 75% of the amount of their individual bonus payout was determined based upon the Company’s actual EBITOI for fiscal 2014 compared to a pre-established target EBITOI for fiscal 2014 and 25% of the payout was determined based upon such executive officer’s achievement of certain pre-established individual performance objectives. The payment of bonuses under the plan were discretionary.

	Accrued bonuses as of August 31, 2014 were $1,460,000 under the fiscal 2014 bonus plan. There were $959,000 in accrued bonuses under the prior fiscal year bonus plan as of August 31, 2013.

	On July 14, 2014, the Company entered into a purchase and sale agreement with Glenwillow Holdings, LLC pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase certain real property and a building located on such real property located in Beachwood, Ohio, for the purchase price of $1,100,000. This purchase was completed on August 20, 2014 and was paid in cash.

	NTIC leases approximately 17,000 square feet of office, manufacturing, laboratory and warehouse space located in Beachwood, Ohio. The monthly rental payments are $17,500, which are adjusted annually according to the annual consumer price index, through November 2014. It is anticipated that this lease will terminate upon its expiration in December 2014.

	Three joint ventures (consisting of the Company’s joint ventures in Korea, China and Thailand) accounted for 62.9% of the Company’s trade joint venture receivables at August 31, 2014 and two joint ventures (consisting of the Company’s joint venues in Korea and India) accounted for 49.0% of the Company’s trade joint venture receivables at August 31, 2013.

	From time to time, the Company is subject to various claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of its business. The Company records a liability in its consolidated financial statements for costs related to claims, including future legal costs, settlements and judgments, where the Company has assessed that a loss is probable and an amount can be reasonably estimated. If the reasonable estimate of a probable loss is a range, the Company records the most probable estimate of the loss or the minimum amount when no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount. The Company discloses a contingent liability even if the liability is not probable or the amount is not estimable, or both, if there is a reasonable possibility that material loss may be have been incurred. In the opinion of management, as of August 31, 2014, the amount of liability, if any, with respect to these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will not materially affect the Company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Note_17_Statements_of_Cash_Flo

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	17. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2014 and 2013 consist of:

		Fiscal Year Ended
		August 31,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for income tax	$	—	$	—
	Cash paid during the year for interest		47,322		52,215
	Note receivable issued for sale of joint venture		245,594		—

Note_18_Fair_Value_Measurement

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	18. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

	The Company follows the authoritative guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures with respect to assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on both a recurring and non-recurring basis. Under this guidance, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. The authoritative guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability, developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the factors market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability developed based upon the best information available in the circumstances. The categorization of financial assets and financial liabilities within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels defined as follows:

		Level 1 -	Inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

		Level 2 -	Inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs (other than quoted prices) that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

		Level 3 -	Inputs are unobservable for the asset or liability.

	See the section below titled Valuation Techniques for further discussion of how the Company determines fair value for investments.

	Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

	Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis primarily relate to marketable equity securities. These items are marked-to-market at each reporting period.

	The following tables provide information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

					Fair Value Measurements
					Using Inputs Considered as
			Fair value as of		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
			31-Aug-14
	Available for sale securities		$	5,519,766	$	5,519,766	$	—	$	—
	Cash equivalents			500,234		500,234		—		—
	Total		$	6,020,000	$	6,020,000	$	—	$	—

					Fair Value Measurements
					Using Inputs Considered as
			Fair value as of		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
			31-Aug-13
	Cash equivalents		$	1,020,000	$	1,020,000	$	—	$	—

	Valuation Techniques

	Financial assets that are classified as Level 1 securities include cash equivalents and as of August 31, 2014, available for sale securities. These are valued using quoted market prices in an active market.

	The Company reviews the fair value hierarchy classification on a quarterly basis. Changes in the ability to observe valuation inputs may result in a reclassification of levels for certain securities within the fair value hierarchy. The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy at the end of the fiscal quarter in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2014 or August 31, 2013. When a determination is made to classify an asset or liability within Level 3, the determination is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.

Note_19_Quarterly_Information_

Note 19 - Quarterly Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
Note 19 - Quarterly Information (Unaudited)	Aug. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	'
	19. QUARTERLY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

		Fiscal Quarter Ended
		30-Nov		28-Feb		31-May		31-Aug
	Fiscal year 2014:
	Net sales	$	6,309,100	$	6,219,008	$	6,920,820	$	7,377,180
	Gross profit		2,151,069		2,167,175		2,251,498		2,453,213
	Income before income tax expense		1,502,418		1,643,828		1,759,537		1,757,291
	Income tax expense		198,000		259,759		361,280		305,623
	Net income		1,304,418		1,384,069		1,398,257		1,451,668
	Net income attributable to non-controlling interests		445,832		359,025		418,040		209,143
	Net income attributable to NTIC		858,586		1,025,044		980,217		1,242,527

	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.22	$	0.28
	Diluted	$	0.19	$	0.22	$	0.21	$	0.27

	Weighted average common shares assumed outstanding:
	Basic		4,434,770		4,434,837		4,461,880		4,487,478
	Diluted		4,552,669		4,579,603		4,590,344		4,592,208

		Fiscal Quarter Ended
		30-Nov		28-Feb		31-May		31-Aug
	Fiscal year 2013:
	Net sales	$	5,291,747	$	5,246,350	$	5,877,033	$	6,086,734
	Gross profit		1,600,775		1,612,437		1,822,669		1,992,771
	Income before income tax expense		892,536		985,155		1,445,769		2,294,041
	Income tax expense		134,000		240,000		158,000		332,000
	Net income		758,536		745,155		1,287,769		1,962,041
	Net income attributable to non-controlling interests		368,914		310,745		360,657		346,291
	Net income attributable to NTIC		389,622		434,410		927,112		1,615,750

	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.09	$	0.1	$	0.21	$	0.37
	Diluted	$	0.09	$	0.1	$	0.21	$	0.36

	Weighted average common shares assumed outstanding:
	Basic		4,406,205		4,418,821		4,421,379		4,431,948
	Diluted		4,440,436		4,485,076		4,468,861		4,501,017

Accounting_Policies_by_Policy_

Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Principles of Consolidation - The Company evaluates its voting and variable interests in entities on a qualitative and quantitative basis. The Company consolidates entities when it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact an entity’s economic success and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to the entity. All such relationships are evaluated on an ongoing basis. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Northern Technologies International Corporation, its wholly owned subsidiary, Northern Technologies Holding Company, LLC, its majority owned subsidiary in Brazil, Zerust Prevenção de Corrosão S.A. (Zerust Brazil), its majority owned subsidiary in India, Natur-Tec India Private Limited (Natur-Tec India) and its majority owned holding company, NTI ASEAN LLC (NTI Asean). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements do not include the accounts of any of the Company’s joint ventures.
Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Non-Controlling Interests – The Company owns 85% of Zerust Brazil. The remaining 15% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company owns 60% of NTI Asean. The remaining 40% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company owns 90% of Natur-Tec India. The remaining 10% is accounted for as a non-controlling interest and reported as part of equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company allocates gains and losses to the non-controlling interest even when such allocation might result in a deficit balance, reducing the losses attributed to the controlling interest, changes in ownership interests are treated as equity transactions if control is maintained.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Net Sales –The Company includes net sales to its joint ventures and net sales to unaffiliated customers as separate line items on its consolidated statements of operations. There are no sales originating from the Company’s joint ventures included in the amount, as the Company’s investments in its joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.

	Revenue Recognition – The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its products when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered, the price is fixed and determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. These criteria are met when risk of loss and title pass to the customer, distributor or joint venture entity. Sales and use taxes charged to customers are reported on a net basis.

	Deferred Joint Venture Revenue – The Company periodically sponsors a worldwide joint venture conference, in which all of its joint ventures are invited to participate. It defers a portion of its service fees received from its joint ventures in each accounting period leading up to the next conference, reflecting that the Company has not earned portions of the payments received. It is anticipated that the next joint venture conference will be held next year or the year thereafter. At both August 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had deferred $288,000 of joint venture fees for services related to this future conference, which represents the amount that the Company expects to spend to hold the conference. This amount is based on the historical experience of the Company, current conditions, and the intentions of the Company’s management. The Company does not anticipate deferring any additional service fees until after the next conference.

	Accounts Receivable – Payment terms for the Company’s unaffiliated customers are determined based on credit risk and vary by customer. The Company typically offers standard payment terms to unaffiliated customers of net 30 days. The Company does not accrue interest on past due accounts receivable. The Company reviews the credit histories of its customers before extending unsecured credit. The Company presents accounts and notes receivable, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Each quarter, the Company prepares an analysis of its ability to collect outstanding receivables that provides a basis for an allowance estimate for doubtful accounts. In doing so, the Company evaluates the age of its receivables, past collection history, current financial conditions of key customers and its joint ventures, and economic conditions. Based on this evaluation, the Company establishes a reserve for specific accounts and notes receivable that it believes are uncollectible, as well as an estimate of uncollectible receivables not specifically known. The Company believes that an analysis of historical trends and its current knowledge of potential collection problems provide the Company with sufficient information to establish a reasonable estimate for an allowance for doubtful accounts. In the event the Company determined that a smaller or larger uncollectible accounts reserve is appropriate, the Company would record a credit or charge to selling expense in the period that it made such a determination. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $40,000 and $20,000 at August 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accounts are considered past due based on terms agreed upon between the Company and the customer. Accounts receivable are written-off only after all collection attempts have failed and are based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer.

	Receivables from Joint Ventures – Trade receivables from joint ventures arise from sales of products the Company makes to its joint ventures. Payment terms for the Company’s joint ventures also are determined based on credit risk; however, additional consideration also is given to the individual joint venture due to the transportation time associated with ocean delivery of most products and certain other factors. Generally, accounts receivable from the Company’s joint ventures unpaid after 90 days are considered past due. The Company does not accrue interest on past due balances. The Company periodically reviews amounts due from its joint ventures for collectability, and based on past experience and continuous review of the balances due, has determined an allowance for doubtful accounts related to its joint venture receivables is not necessary.

	Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures – The Company provides certain services to its joint ventures including consulting, legal, travel, insurance, technical and marketing services. The Company receives fees for the services it provides to its joint ventures. The fees for services received by the Company from its joint ventures are generally based on either a flat fee or a percentage of net sales by the Company’s joint ventures depending on local laws and tax regulations. The Company recognizes revenues related to fees for services provided to its joint ventures when earned, amounts are determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Under the Company’s agreements with its joint ventures, amounts are earned when product is shipped from joint venture facilities. The Company reviews the financial situation of each of its joint ventures to assist in the likelihood of collections on amounts earned. The Company elects to account for these fees on a cash basis for certain joint ventures if uncertainty exists surrounding the collection of such fees.
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]	'
	Deferred Joint Venture Revenue – The Company periodically sponsors a worldwide joint venture conference, in which all of its joint ventures are invited to participate. It defers a portion of its service fees received from its joint ventures in each accounting period leading up to the next conference, reflecting that the Company has not earned portions of the payments received. It is anticipated that the next joint venture conference will be held next year or the year thereafter. At both August 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had deferred $288,000 of joint venture fees for services related to this future conference, which represents the amount that the Company expects to spend to hold the conference. This amount is based on the historical experience of the Company, current conditions, and the intentions of the Company’s management. The Company does not anticipate deferring any additional service fees until after the next conference.
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Accounts Receivable – Payment terms for the Company’s unaffiliated customers are determined based on credit risk and vary by customer. The Company typically offers standard payment terms to unaffiliated customers of net 30 days. The Company does not accrue interest on past due accounts receivable. The Company reviews the credit histories of its customers before extending unsecured credit. The Company presents accounts and notes receivable, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Each quarter, the Company prepares an analysis of its ability to collect outstanding receivables that provides a basis for an allowance estimate for doubtful accounts. In doing so, the Company evaluates the age of its receivables, past collection history, current financial conditions of key customers and its joint ventures, and economic conditions. Based on this evaluation, the Company establishes a reserve for specific accounts and notes receivable that it believes are uncollectible, as well as an estimate of uncollectible receivables not specifically known. The Company believes that an analysis of historical trends and its current knowledge of potential collection problems provide the Company with sufficient information to establish a reasonable estimate for an allowance for doubtful accounts. In the event the Company determined that a smaller or larger uncollectible accounts reserve is appropriate, the Company would record a credit or charge to selling expense in the period that it made such a determination. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $40,000 and $20,000 at August 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accounts are considered past due based on terms agreed upon between the Company and the customer. Accounts receivable are written-off only after all collection attempts have failed and are based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer.
Receivables from Joint Ventures, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Receivables from Joint Ventures – Trade receivables from joint ventures arise from sales of products the Company makes to its joint ventures. Payment terms for the Company’s joint ventures also are determined based on credit risk; however, additional consideration also is given to the individual joint venture due to the transportation time associated with ocean delivery of most products and certain other factors. Generally, accounts receivable from the Company’s joint ventures unpaid after 90 days are considered past due. The Company does not accrue interest on past due balances. The Company periodically reviews amounts due from its joint ventures for collectability, and based on past experience and continuous review of the balances due, has determined an allowance for doubtful accounts related to its joint venture receivables is not necessary.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company includes as cash and cash equivalents highly liquid, short-term investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased, which are readily convertible into known amounts of cash. The Company maintains its cash in high quality financial institutions. The balances, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Available for sale securities – Available for sale securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized holding gains and losses on available for sale securities are excluded from earnings.
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Inventories - Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Property and Depreciation - Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated service lives of the various assets as follows:

		Buildings and improvements (years)	5	-	30
		Machinery and equipment (years	3	-	10
Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Investments in Joint Ventures - Investments in the Company’s joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, investments are initially recorded at cost and are adjusted for dividends, distributed and undistributed earnings and losses, changes in foreign currency exchange rates and additional investments. In the event the Company’s share of joint venture’s cumulative losses exceed the Company’s investment balance, the balance is reported at zero value until proportionate income exceeds the losses. The Company assesses its joint ventures for impairment on an annual basis as of August 31 of each year as part of its fiscal year end analysis. In addition to the annual review for impairment, the Company reviews the operating results of each joint venture on a quarterly basis in comparison to its historical operating results and its accrual of fees for services provided to joint ventures. If the operating results of a joint venture do not meet financial performance expectations, an additional evaluation is performed on the joint venture. If an investment were determined to be impaired, then a reserve is created to reflect the impairment on the financial results of the Company. The Company’s evaluation of its investments in joint ventures requires the Company to make assumptions about future cash flows of its joint ventures. These assumptions require significant judgment and actual results may differ from assumed or estimated amounts. All investments in joint ventures have positive equity as of August 31, 2014.
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Recoverability of Long-Lived Assets - The Company reviews its long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The Company determines potential impairment by comparing the carrying value of the assets with expected net cash flows expected to be provided by operating activities of the business or related products. If the sum of the expected undiscounted future net cash flows is less than the carrying value, the Company evaluates if an impairment loss should be recognized. An impairment loss is measured by comparing the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Income Taxes - The Company utilizes the liability method of accounting for income taxes which requires an asset and liability approach to financial accounting and reporting for income taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

	The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. In the event the Company determines that it would be able to realize its deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, the Company would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

	The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby the Company determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position and those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. The Company recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Foreign Currency Translation (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) - The functional currency of Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India and each unconsolidated international joint venture is the applicable local currency. The translation of the applicable foreign currencies into U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using an average monthly exchange rate. Translation gains or losses are reported as an element of other comprehensive income.

	The Company (excluding Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India, NTI Asean and its joint ventures) conducts all foreign transactions based on the U.S. dollar. Since investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method, any changes in foreign currency exchange rates are reflected as a foreign currency translation adjustment and does not change the equity in income from joint ventures reflected in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments – The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, available for sale securities, short-term accounts and notes receivable, notes payable, trade accounts payables, and other accrued expenses approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. The fair value of the Company’s former long-term debt approximated the carrying values based upon current market rates of interest.
Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Shipping and Handling - The Company records all amounts billed to customers in a sales transaction related to shipping and handling as sales. The Company records costs related to shipping and handling in cost of goods sold.
Research, Development, and Computer Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Research and Development - The Company expenses all costs related to product research and development as incurred. The costs related to product research and development are the net amount after being reduced by reimbursements related to certain research and development contracts of $45,788 and $274,728 for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively. The Company accrues proceeds received under such contracts and offsets research and development expenses incurred in equal installments over the timelines associated with completion of the contracts’ specific objectives and milestones.
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Stock-Based Compensation – The Company recognizes compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions, including grants of employee stock options and transactions under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan, in its consolidated financial statements. That cost is measured based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. The Company measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock options and other stock-based awards based on the grant-date fair value of the award, and recognizes the cost over the period the employee is required to provide services for the award (generally the vesting term).
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Use of Estimates - The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Note_3_NTI_ASEAN_Tables

Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]	'
	Net assets acquired (liabilities assumed):
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,613,000
	Accounts receivables		1,342,000
	Investments in joint ventures		4,967,000
	Value of assets	$	7,922,000
	Purchase price:
	Fair value of non-controlling interest	$	3,961,000
	Value of previously held interest		3,961,000
	Total consideration	$	7,922,000

Note_4_Inventories_Tables

Note 4 - Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 4 - Inventories (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	'
		31-Aug-14		31-Aug-13
	Production materials	$	1,242,649	$	1,096,693
	Finished goods		4,718,750		4,014,856
		$	5,961,399	$	5,111,549

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_1

Note 5 - Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 5 - Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	'
		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Land	$	310,365		$	310,365
	Buildings and improvements		5,695,268			4,613,879
	Machinery and equipment		3,713,145			3,189,671
			9,718,778			8,113,915
	Less accumulated depreciation		(3,240,791	)		(2,790,303	)
		$	6,477,987		$	5,323,612

Note_6_Patents_and_Trademarks_1

Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	'
		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Patents and trademarks	$	2,287,840		$	2,064,128
	Less accumulated amortization		(1,090,140	)		(1,003,489	)
		$	1,197,700		$	1,060,639

Note_7_Investments_in_Joint_Ve1

Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'
Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]	'
		31-Aug-14
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Current assets	$	61,491,957	$	24,361,157	$	9,774,680	$	27,356,120
	Total assets		65,466,964		26,652,165		9,793,803		29,020,996
	Current liabilities		17,542,634		3,512,143		4,438,380		9,592,111
	Noncurrent liabilities		1,929,488		—		868,377		1,061,111
	Joint ventures’ equity		45,994,842		23,140,022		4,487,046		18,367,775
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity		22,961,989		11,570,013		2,243,524		9,148,452
	Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	$	20,540,523	$	11,539,108	$	2,193,524	$	6,807,891
		31-Aug-13
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Current assets	$	63,052,410	$	25,955,136	$	11,200,355	$	25,896,919
	Total assets		68,417,142		28,391,787		11,226,755		28,798,600
	Current liabilities		16,107,597		3,572,004		3,080,118		9,455,475
	Noncurrent liabilities		2,488,057		—		871,886		1,616,171
	Joint ventures’ equity		49,821,488		24,819,783		7,274,751		17,726,954
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity		24,702,981		12,409,893		3,637,375		8,655,713
	Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	$	22,281,510	$	12,378,988	$	3,587,375	$	6,315,147
Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2014
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Net sales	$	118,848,890	$	39,944,812	$	15,920,685	$	62,983,393
	Gross profit		56,960,918		21,045,091		7,463,168		28,452,659
	Net income		11,842,338		7,906,693		1,274,487		2,661,158
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures	$	5,920,603	$	3,950,915	$	626,763	$	1,342,925
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2013
		TOTAL		EXCOR		China		All Other
	Net sales	$	113,189,068	$	36,476,544	$	15,161,289	$	61,551,235
	Gross profit		52,058,609		19,470,322		7,153,395		25,434,891
	Net income		10,650,542		7,009,897		1,157,995		2,482,650
	Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures	$	5,237,711	$	3,507,057	$	579,376	$	1,151,278

Note_9_Stockholders_Equity_Tab

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	'
			Number of				Weighted Average		Aggregate
			Shares (#)				Exercise Price		Intrinsic Value
	Outstanding at August 31, 2012			203,873			$	10.01
	Options granted			118,294				10.25
	Options exercised			(37,040	)			9.96
	Options terminated			(24,500	)			13.12

	Outstanding at August 31, 2013			260,627			$	9.84
	Options granted			56,373				14.83
	Options exercised			(74,000	)			7.82
	Options terminated			(4,000	)			8.57

	Outstanding at August 31, 2014			239,000			$	11.66	$	2,163,147

	Exercisable at August 31, 2014			136,731			$	10.83	$	1,351,499
Stock Option Exercises [Member]	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	'
	Options				Exercise
	Exercised				Price
		60,000			$	7.65
		14,000				8.57
	Options				Exercise
	Exercised				Price
		25,140			$	9.95
		4,000				12.84
		4,000				8.57
		1,734				7.65
		1,500				9.76
		666				7.75

Note_10_Net_Income_Per_Common_1

Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	'
	Numerator:	31-Aug-14		31-Aug-13
	Net income attributable to NTIC	$	4,106,372	$	3,366,894

	Denominator:
	Basic – weighted shares outstanding		4,454,836		4,421,636
	Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options		124,662		54,259
	Diluted – weighted shares outstanding		4,579,498		4,475,895

	Basic earnings per share:	$	0.92	$	0.76
	Diluted earnings per share:	$	0.9	$	0.75

Note_11_StockBased_Compensatio1

Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	'
		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Dividend yield		0	%			0.00%
	Expected volatility		47.4	%			48.00%
	Expected life of option (years)		10			5	-	10
	Weighted average risk-free interest rate		1.39	%			0.71%
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	'
		Number of			Weighted Average				Aggregate
		Shares (#)			Exercise Price				Intrinsic Value
	Outstanding at August 31, 2012		203,873		$	10.01
	Options granted		118,294			10.25
	Options exercised		(37,040	)		9.96
	Options terminated		(24,500	)		13.12

	Outstanding at August 31, 2013		260,627		$	9.84
	Options granted		56,373			14.83
	Options exercised		(74,000	)		7.82
	Options terminated		(4,000	)		8.57

	Outstanding at August 31, 2014		239,000		$	11.66			$	2,163,147

	Exercisable at August 31, 2014		136,731		$	10.83			$	1,351,499

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment1

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
		2014			2013
	Inside the U.S.A. to unaffiliated customers		66.2	%		70.7	%
	Outside the U.S.A. to:
	Joint ventures in which the Company is a shareholder directly and indirectly		12.7	%		13.4	%
	Unaffiliated customers		21.1	%		15.9	%
			100	%		100	%
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal 2014			Fiscal 2013			$		%
		Fiscal 2014			Fiscal 2013			Change		Change
	ZERUST® net sales	$	23,845,288		$	20,457,198		$	3,388,090		16.6	%
	Natur-Tec® net sales		2,980,820			2,044,666			936,154		45.8	%
	Total net sales	$	26,826,108		$	22,501,864		$	4,324,244		19.2	%
Reconciliation of Cost of Good Sold from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal 2014			% of Product			Fiscal 2013		% of Product
		Fiscal 2014			Sales*			Fiscal 2013		Sales*
	Direct cost of goods sold
	ZERUST®	$	12,941,234			54.3	%	$	11,408,604		55.8	%
	Natur-Tec®		2,234,736			75	%		1,731,398		84.7	%
	Indirect cost of goods sold		2,627,183			—			2,333,210		—
	Total net cost of goods sold	$	17,803,153			66.4	%	$	15,473,212		68.8	%
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block]	'
		At August 31, 2014			At August 31, 2013
	Brazil	$	1,429,054		$	1,419,543
	India		363,894
	North America		52,264,827			47,634,406
	Total assets	$	54,057,775		$	49,053,949
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended			Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Brazil	$	3,079,695		$	2,394,486
	India		581,535			--
	North America		23,164,878			20,107,378
	Total net sales	$	26,826,108		$	22,501,864
		Fiscal Year Ended			Fiscal Year Ended
		31-Aug-14			31-Aug-13
	Brazil	$	231,054		$	(273,246	)
	India		15,132			--
	North America		6,448,200			5,238,222
	Total operating income	$	6,694,386		$	4,964,976
Fees For Services Provided to Joint Ventures [Member]	'
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal 2014			% of Total Fees			Fiscal 2013		% of Total Fees
					for Services					for Services
					Provided to Joint					Provided to Joint
					Ventures in Fiscal					Ventures in
					2014					Fiscal 2013
	China	$	2,118,018			26	%	$	2,063,369		28.1	%
	Germany		1,032,234			12.7	%		1,004,958		13.7	%
	Japan		669,522			8.2	%		723,977		9.8	%
	Poland		652,291			8	%		525,282		7.1	%
	Thailand		604,316			7.4	%		621,807		8.4	%
	France		508,705			6.2	%		496,897		6.8	%
	Sweden		440,117			5.4	%		415,547		5.7	%
	United Kingdom		385,294			4.7	%		236,125		3.2	%
	India		364,918			4.5	%		—		0	%
	Finland		355,391			4.4	%		321,256		4.4	%
	Korea		315,916			3.9	%		393,307		5.3	%
	Czech		288,367			3.6	%		210,827		2.9	%
	Other		407,775			5	%		339,628		4.6	%
		$	8,142,863			100	%	$	7,352,980		100	%

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Tables

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 15 - Income Taxes (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
		2014			2013
	Current:
	Federal	$	—		$	—
	State		19,000			8,000
	Foreign		1,200,000			731,000
			1,219,000			739,000
	Deferred:
	Federal		(89,000	)		118,000
	State		(6,000	)		7,000
	Foreign		—			—
			(95,000	)		125,000
		$	1,124,000		$	864,000
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
		2014			2013
	Tax computed at statutory rates	$	2,265,000		$	1,910,000
	State income tax, net of federal benefit		13,000			15,000
	Tax effect on equity in (income) loss of international joint ventures		(2,055,000	)		(1,781,000	)
	Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures		3,285,000			1,732,000
	Tax effect of foreign operations		1,131,000			807,000
	Foreign tax credit		(3,710,000	)		(2,524,000	)
	Research and development credit		(88,000	)		(364,000	)
	Valuation allowance		687,000			1,635,000
	Tax-exempt income		-			(230,000	)
	Non-controlling interest in partnership income		(440,000	)		(425,000	)
	Other		36,000			89,000
		$	1,124,000		$	864,000
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	'
		August 31,
		2014			2013
	Current:
	Accrued bonus	$	524,000		$	277,300
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		14,500			7,200
	Inventory costs		100,800			24,600
	Prepaid expenses and other		(40,600	)		(31,200	)
	Other accrued expenses		86,800			85,500
	Deferred joint venture expenses		104,100			104,100
	Total current	$	789,600		$	467,500

	Noncurrent:
	Property and equipment	$	(171,200	)	$	(165,100	)
	Goodwill		27,300			35,200
	Other intangible assets		825,200			914,000
	Nonqualified stock options		260,400			248,500
	Capital loss carryforward		50,900			-
	Foreign tax credit carryforward		4,141,100			4,253,900
	Research and development credit		1,910,800			1,823,200
	New hire retention credit		10,600			10,600
			7,055,100			7,120,300
	Valuation allowance		(6,113,400	)		(6,086,100	)
	Total noncurrent	$	941,700		$	1,034,200
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended August 31,
		2014			2013
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits – beginning balance	$	170,000		$	131,000
	Gross increases - prior period tax positions		2,000			19,000
	Gross increases – current period tax positions		8,000			20,000
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits – ending balance	$	180,000		$	170,000

Note_17_Statements_of_Cash_Flo1

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Year Ended
		August 31,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for income tax	$	—	$	—
	Cash paid during the year for interest		47,322		52,215
	Note receivable issued for sale of joint venture		245,594		—

Note_18_Fair_Value_Measurement1

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]	'
				Fair Value Measurements
				Using Inputs Considered as
		Fair value as of		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		31-Aug-14
	Available for sale securities	$	5,519,766	$	5,519,766	$	—	$	—
	Cash equivalents		500,234		500,234		—		—
	Total	$	6,020,000	$	6,020,000	$	—	$	—
				Fair Value Measurements
				Using Inputs Considered as
		Fair value as of		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
		31-Aug-13
	Cash equivalents	$	1,020,000	$	1,020,000	$	—	$	—

Note_19_Quarterly_Information_1

Note 19 - Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
Note 19 - Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	Aug. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	'
		Fiscal Quarter Ended
		30-Nov		28-Feb		31-May		31-Aug
	Fiscal year 2014:
	Net sales	$	6,309,100	$	6,219,008	$	6,920,820	$	7,377,180
	Gross profit		2,151,069		2,167,175		2,251,498		2,453,213
	Income before income tax expense		1,502,418		1,643,828		1,759,537		1,757,291
	Income tax expense		198,000		259,759		361,280		305,623
	Net income		1,304,418		1,384,069		1,398,257		1,451,668
	Net income attributable to non-controlling interests		445,832		359,025		418,040		209,143
	Net income attributable to NTIC		858,586		1,025,044		980,217		1,242,527

	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.19	$	0.23	$	0.22	$	0.28
	Diluted	$	0.19	$	0.22	$	0.21	$	0.27

	Weighted average common shares assumed outstanding:
	Basic		4,434,770		4,434,837		4,461,880		4,487,478
	Diluted		4,552,669		4,579,603		4,590,344		4,592,208
		Fiscal Quarter Ended
		30-Nov		28-Feb		31-May		31-Aug
	Fiscal year 2013:
	Net sales	$	5,291,747	$	5,246,350	$	5,877,033	$	6,086,734
	Gross profit		1,600,775		1,612,437		1,822,669		1,992,771
	Income before income tax expense		892,536		985,155		1,445,769		2,294,041
	Income tax expense		134,000		240,000		158,000		332,000
	Net income		758,536		745,155		1,287,769		1,962,041
	Net income attributable to non-controlling interests		368,914		310,745		360,657		346,291
	Net income attributable to NTIC		389,622		434,410		927,112		1,615,750

	Net income per share:
	Basic	$	0.09	$	0.1	$	0.21	$	0.37
	Diluted	$	0.09	$	0.1	$	0.21	$	0.36

	Weighted average common shares assumed outstanding:
	Basic		4,406,205		4,418,821		4,421,379		4,431,948
	Diluted		4,440,436		4,485,076		4,468,861		4,501,017

Note_1_Nature_of_Business_and_1

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Number of Countries in which Entity Operates	60	'
Number of Joint Venture Arrangements	20	'
Deferred Revenue, Current (in Dollars)	$288,000	$288,000
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable (in Dollars)	20,000	40,000
Reimbursements Related To Certain Research And Development Contracts (in Dollars)	45,788	274,728
Building and Building Improvements [Member] \| Maximum [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'30 years	'
Building and Building Improvements [Member] \| Minimum [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'5 years	'
Machinery and Equipment [Member] \| Maximum [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'10 years	'
Machinery and Equipment [Member] \| Minimum [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'3 years	'
Joint Venture Fees [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred Revenue, Current (in Dollars)	$288,000	$288,000
Zerust Brazil [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	15.00%	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	85.00%	'
NTI ASEAN [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	40.00%	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	60.00%	'
Natur-Tec [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	10.00%	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	90.00%	'
Maximum [Member]	'	'
Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	50.00%	'

Note_3_NTI_ASEAN_Details

Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Details) (NTI ASEAN [Member])	1 Months Ended
Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Details) (NTI ASEAN [Member])	Sep. 30, 2012	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
NTI ASEAN [Member]	'	'	'
Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	'	'	50.00%
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	10.00%	10.00%	'
Business Acquisition, Ownership Percentage Subsequent to Acquisition	60.00%	'	'
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	25.00%	'	'

Note_3_NTI_ASEAN_Details_Alloc

Note 3 - NTI ASEAN (Details) - Allocation of the Total Transaction Amount (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Net assets acquired (liabilities assumed):	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,613,000
Accounts receivables	1,342,000
Investments in joint ventures	4,967,000
Value of assets	7,922,000
Purchase price:	'
Fair value of non-controlling interest	3,961,000
Value of previously held interest	3,961,000
Total consideration	$7,922,000

Note_4_Inventories_Details_Inv

Note 4 - Inventories (Details) - Inventories (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'	'
Production materials	$1,242,649	$1,096,693
Finished goods	4,718,750	4,014,856
	$5,961,399	$5,111,549

Note_5_Property_and_Equipment_2

Note 5 - Property and Equipment, Net (Details) - Components of Property and Equipment, Net (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property, plant and equipment	$9,718,778	$8,113,915
	9,718,778	8,113,915
Less accumulated depreciation	-3,240,791	-2,790,303
	6,477,987	5,323,612
Land [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property, plant and equipment	310,365	310,365
	310,365	310,365
Building and Building Improvements [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property, plant and equipment	5,695,268	4,613,879
	5,695,268	4,613,879
Machinery and Equipment [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property, plant and equipment	3,713,145	3,189,671
	$3,713,145	$3,189,671

Note_6_Patents_and_Trademarks_2

Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014
Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) [Line Items]	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	$80,000
Patents and Trademarks [Member]	'
Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) [Line Items]	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	'7 years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	80,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	80,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	80,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	$80,000

Note_6_Patents_and_Trademarks_3

Note 6 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) - Patents and Trademarks, Net (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Patents and Trademarks, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Patents and trademarks	$2,287,840	$2,064,128
Less accumulated amortization	-1,090,140	-1,003,489
	$1,197,700	$1,060,639

Note_7_Investments_in_Joint_Ve2

Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
	Aug. 31, 2014	Singapore [Member]	Mutec [Member]	NTI ASEAN [Member]	NTI ASEAN [Member]
Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture	$110,988	$100,988	'	'	'
Due from Joint Ventures	'	'	$156,854	'	'
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	'	'	'	10.00%	10.00%

Note_7_Investments_in_Joint_Ve3

Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Details) - Condensed Balance Sheet of EXCOR and NTI ASEAN, and All Other Joint Ventures (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Current assets	$61,491,957	$63,052,410
Total assets	65,466,964	68,417,142
Current liabilities	17,542,634	16,107,597
Noncurrent liabilities	1,929,488	2,488,057
Joint venturesb equity	45,994,842	49,821,488
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of joint venturesb equity	22,961,989	24,702,981
Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint venturesb undistributed earnings	20,540,523	22,281,510
EXCOR [Member]	'	'
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Current assets	24,361,157	25,955,136
Total assets	26,652,165	28,391,787
Current liabilities	3,512,143	3,572,004
Joint venturesb equity	23,140,022	24,819,783
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of joint venturesb equity	11,570,013	12,409,893
Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint venturesb undistributed earnings	11,539,108	12,378,988
China [Member]	'	'
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Current assets	9,774,680	11,200,355
Total assets	9,793,803	11,226,755
Current liabilities	4,438,380	3,080,118
Noncurrent liabilities	868,377	871,886
Joint venturesb equity	4,487,046	7,274,751
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of joint venturesb equity	2,243,524	3,637,375
Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint venturesb undistributed earnings	2,193,524	3,587,375
All Other [Member]	'	'
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Current assets	27,356,120	25,896,919
Total assets	29,020,996	28,798,600
Current liabilities	9,592,111	9,455,475
Noncurrent liabilities	1,061,111	1,616,171
Joint venturesb equity	18,367,775	17,726,954
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of joint venturesb equity	9,148,452	8,655,713
Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint venturesb undistributed earnings	$6,807,891	$6,315,147

Note_7_Investments_in_Joint_Ve4

Note 7 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Details) - Condensed Income Statement of EXCOR and NTI ASEAN, and All Other Joint Ventures: (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	$118,848,890	$113,189,068
Gross profit	56,960,918	52,058,609
Net income	11,842,338	10,650,542
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of equity in income from joint ventures	5,920,603	5,237,711
EXCOR [Member]	'	'
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	39,944,812	36,476,544
Gross profit	21,045,091	19,470,322
Net income	7,906,693	7,009,897
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of equity in income from joint ventures	3,950,915	3,507,057
China [Member]	'	'
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	15,920,685	'
Gross profit	7,463,168	'
Net income	1,274,487	'
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of equity in income from joint ventures	626,763	'
All Other [Member]	'	'
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	62,983,393	61,551,235
Gross profit	28,452,659	25,434,891
Net income	2,661,158	2,482,650
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of equity in income from joint ventures	1,342,925	1,151,278
NTI ASEAN [Member]	'	'
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	'	15,161,289
Gross profit	'	7,153,395
Net income	'	1,157,995
Northern Technologies International Corporationbs share of equity in income from joint ventures	'	$579,376

Note_8_Corporate_Debt_Details

Note 8 - Corporate Debt (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014
		Term Loan and Line of Credit Agreements "Loan Agreements" [Member]	Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
			London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Note 8 - Corporate Debt (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Gross	$933,413	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	'	'	'	$3,000,000
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	'	'	2.15%	'
Debt Instrument, Covenants, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio	'	'1.10:1.00.	'	'

Note_9_Stockholders_Equity_Det

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value	$890,955	$45,533

Note_9_Stockholders_Equity_Det1

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	74,000	37,040
Exercise Price	$7.82	$9.96
Options Exercised 1 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	60,000	25,140
Exercise Price	$7.65	$9.95
Options Exercised 2 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	14,000	4,000
Exercise Price	$8.57	$12.84
Options Exercised 3 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	'	4,000
Exercise Price	'	$8.57
Options Exercised 4 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	'	1,734
Exercise Price	'	$7.65
Options Exercised 5 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	'	1,500
Exercise Price	'	$9.76
Options Exercised 6 [Member]	'	'
Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Exercised Stock Options [Line Items]	'	'
Options Exercised	'	666
Exercise Price	'	$7.75

Note_10_Net_Income_Per_Common_2

Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	22,000	0

Note_10_Net_Income_Per_Common_3

Note 10 - Net Income Per Common Share (Details) - Reconciliation of the Earnings Per Share Computations (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	31-May-14	Feb. 28, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Reconciliation of the Earnings Per Share Computations [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to NTIC (in Dollars)	$1,242,527	$980,217	$1,025,044	$1,615,750	$927,112	$434,410	$4,106,372	$3,366,894	$858,586	$389,622
Basic b weighted shares outstanding	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,454,836	4,421,636	'	'
Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options	'	'	'	'	'	'	124,662	54,259	'	'
Diluted b weighted shares outstanding	4,592,208	4,590,344	4,579,603	4,501,017	4,468,861	4,485,076	4,579,498	4,475,895	4,552,669	4,440,436
Basic earnings per share: (in Dollars per share)	$0.28	$0.22	$0.23	$0.37	$0.21	$0.10	$0.92	$0.76	$0.19	$0.09
Diluted earnings per share: (in Dollars per share)	$0.27	$0.21	$0.22	$0.36	$0.21	$0.10	$0.90	$0.75	$0.19	$0.09

Note_11_StockBased_Compensatio2

Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	'10 years	'
Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense (in Dollars)	$454,015	$306,451
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Estimate, Next Fiscal Year (in Dollars)	207,331	'
Estimated Forfeiture Rate For Stock Options	10.00%	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in Dollars per share)	$8.57	$5.53
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'5 years 335 days	'4 years 189 days
Employee Stock Option [Member] \| Minimum [Member] \| 2007 Plan [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'3 years	'
Employee Stock Option [Member] \| Maximum [Member] \| 2007 Plan [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'4 years	'
Employee Stock Option [Member] \| 2007 Plan [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	'10 years	'
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense (in Dollars)	454,015	306,451
Net of Estimated Forfeitures [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options (in Dollars)	$286,584	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	'	'5 years
Maximum [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	'	'10 years
2007 Plan [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized (in Shares)	'	800,000
ESPP [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized (in Shares)	100,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Offering Date	90.00%	'

Note_11_StockBased_Compensatio3

Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model Assumptions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%
Expected volatility	47.40%	48.00%
Expected life of option (years)	'10 years	'
Weighted average risk-free interest rate	1.39%	0.71%
Minimum [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'
Expected life of option (years)	'	'5 years
Maximum [Member]	'	'
Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'
Expected life of option (years)	'	'10 years

Note_11_StockBased_Compensatio4

Note 11 - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Option Activity (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Stock Option Activity [Abstract]	'	'	'
Outstanding	239,000	260,627	203,873
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$11.66	$9.84	$10.01
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$2,163,147	'	'
Options granted	56,373	118,294	'
Options granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$14.83	$10.25	'
Options exercised	-74,000	-37,040	'
Options exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.82	$9.96	'
Options terminated	-4,000	-24,500	'
Options terminated, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$8.57	$13.12	'
Exercisable at August 31, 2014	136,731	'	'
Exercisable at August 31, 2014	$10.83	'	'
Exercisable at August 31, 2014	$1,351,499	'	'

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment2

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Location as Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales (Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Location as Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales [Line Items]	'	'
Net Sales, Percentage	100.00%	100.00%
Inside the U.S.A to Unaffiliated Customers [Member]	'	'
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Location as Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales [Line Items]	'	'
Net Sales, Percentage	66.20%	70.70%
Joint Ventures In Which The Company Is A Shareholder Directly And Indirectly - Outside the U.S.A [Member]	'	'
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Location as Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales [Line Items]	'	'
Net Sales, Percentage	12.70%	13.40%
Unaffiliated Customers - Outside the U.S.A [Member]	'	'
Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Geographic Location as Percentage of Total Consolidated Net Sales [Line Items]	'	'
Net Sales, Percentage	21.10%	15.90%

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment3

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures by Geographic Location as a Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	$8,142,863	$7,352,980
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	100.00%	100.00%
China [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	2,118,018	2,063,369
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	26.00%	28.10%
Germany [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	1,032,234	1,004,958
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	12.70%	13.70%
Japan [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	669,522	723,977
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	8.20%	9.80%
Poland [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	652,291	525,282
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	8.00%	7.10%
Thailand [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	604,316	621,807
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	7.40%	8.40%
France [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	508,705	496,897
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	6.20%	6.80%
Sweden [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	440,117	415,547
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	5.40%	5.70%
United Kingdom [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	385,294	236,125
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	4.70%	3.20%
India [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	364,918	'
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	4.50%	0.00%
Finland [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	355,391	321,256
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	4.40%	4.40%
Korea [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	315,916	393,307
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	3.90%	5.30%
Czech [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	288,367	210,827
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	3.60%	2.90%
Other Countries [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures (in Dollars)	$407,775	$339,628
Percentage of Total Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures	5.00%	4.60%

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment4

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Net Sales by Segment (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	31-May-14	Feb. 28, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$7,377,180	$6,920,820	$6,219,008	$6,086,734	$5,877,033	$5,246,350	$26,826,108	$22,501,864	$6,309,100	$5,291,747
Change in $	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,324,244	'	'	'
Change in %	'	'	'	'	'	'	19.20%	'	'	'
ZERUST [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	23,845,288	20,457,198	'	'
Change in $	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,388,090	'	'	'
Change in %	'	'	'	'	'	'	16.60%	'	'	'
Natur-Tec [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,980,820	2,044,666	'	'
Change in $	'	'	'	'	'	'	$936,154	'	'	'
Change in %	'	'	'	'	'	'	45.80%	'	'	'

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment5

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Cost of Goods Sold by Segment (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Direct cost of goods sold	'	'
Indirect cost of goods sold	$17,803,153	$15,473,212
Indirect cost of goods sold	66.40%	68.80%
ZERUST [Member] \| Direct Cost of Goods Sold [Member]	'	'
Direct cost of goods sold	'	'
Indirect cost of goods sold	12,941,234	11,408,604
Indirect cost of goods sold	54.30%	55.80%
Natur-Tec [Member] \| Direct Cost of Goods Sold [Member]	'	'
Direct cost of goods sold	'	'
Indirect cost of goods sold	2,234,736	1,731,398
Indirect cost of goods sold	75.00%	84.70%
Indirect Cost of Goods Sold [Member]	'	'
Direct cost of goods sold	'	'
Indirect cost of goods sold	$2,627,183	$2,333,210

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment6

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Total Assets by Geographic Distribution (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Country	$54,057,775	$49,053,949
Brazil [Member]	'	'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Country	1,429,054	1,419,543
India [Member]	'	'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Country	363,894	'
North America [Member]	'	'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Country	$52,264,827	$47,634,406

Note_12_Geographic_and_Segment7

Note 12 - Geographic and Segment Information (Details) - Operating Income by Geographic Distribution (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	31-May-14	Feb. 28, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$7,377,180	$6,920,820	$6,219,008	$6,086,734	$5,877,033	$5,246,350	$26,826,108	$22,501,864	$6,309,100	$5,291,747
Operating Income	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,694,386	4,964,976	'	'
Brazil [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,079,695	2,394,486	'	'
Operating Income	'	'	'	'	'	'	231,054	-273,246	'	'
INDIA	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	581,535	'	'	'
Operating Income	'	'	'	'	'	'	15,132	'	'	'
North America [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	23,164,878	20,107,378	'	'
Operating Income	'	'	'	'	'	'	$6,448,200	$5,238,222	'	'

Note_13_Retirement_Plan_Detail

Note 13 - Retirement Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Note 13 - Retirement Plan (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan Employee Contribution Percent Max	15.00%	'
Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Amount Of Employees Contributions Percent	50.00%	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent	3.50%	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized (in Dollars)	$188,207	$175,016

Note_14_Related_Party_Transact1

Note 14 - Related Party Transactions (Details) (Bioplastic Polymers LLC [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Consulting Payment Expense [Member]	'	'
Note 14 - Related Party Transactions (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$100,000	$100,000
Royalty Payment Expense [Member]	'	'
Note 14 - Related Party Transactions (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$14,388	$10,244

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Details

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	$20,540,523	$22,281,510
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign	4,141,100	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	50,900	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	0	0
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'
Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration	602,900	'
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance	'	4,253,900
Federal and State Tax [Member]	'	'
Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards	1,921,400	'
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance	'	1,832,200
Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]	'	'
Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	$50,900	'

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Details_P

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) - Provision for Income Taxes (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Current:	'	'
State	$19,000	$8,000
Foreign	1,200,000	731,000
	1,219,000	739,000
Deferred:	'	'
Federal	-89,000	118,000
State	-6,000	7,000
	-95,000	125,000
	$1,124,000	$864,000

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Details_R

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) - Reconciliations of the Expected Federal Income Tax at the Statutory Rate with the Provisions For Income Taxes (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	31-May-14	Feb. 28, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Reconciliations of the Expected Federal Income Tax at the Statutory Rate with the Provisions For Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Tax computed at statutory rates	'	'	'	'	'	'	$2,265,000	$1,910,000	'	'
State income tax, net of federal benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,000	15,000	'	'
Tax effect on equity in (income) loss of international joint ventures	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,055,000	-1,781,000	'	'
Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,285,000	1,732,000	'	'
Tax effect of foreign operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,131,000	807,000	'	'
Foreign tax credit	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,710,000	-2,524,000	'	'
Research and development credit	'	'	'	'	'	'	-88,000	-364,000	'	'
Valuation allowance	'	'	'	'	'	'	687,000	1,635,000	'	'
Tax-exempt income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-230,000	'	'
Non-controlling interest in partnership income	'	'	'	'	'	'	-440,000	-425,000	'	'
Other	'	'	'	'	'	'	36,000	89,000	'	'
	$305,623	$361,280	$259,759	$332,000	$158,000	$240,000	$1,124,662	$864,000	$198,000	$134,000

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Details_T

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) - Tax Effect of the Temporary Differences and Tax Carry Forwards Comprising Net Deferred Taxes: (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Current:	'	'
Accrued bonus	$524,000	$277,300
Allowance for doubtful accounts	14,500	7,200
Inventory costs	100,800	24,600
Prepaid expenses and other	-40,600	-31,200
Other accrued expenses	86,800	85,500
Deferred joint venture expenses	104,100	104,100
Total current	789,600	467,500
Noncurrent:	'	'
Property and equipment	-171,200	-165,100
Goodwill	27,300	35,200
Other intangible assets	825,200	914,000
Nonqualified stock options	260,400	248,500
Capital loss carryforward	50,900	'
Foreign tax credit carryforward	4,141,100	4,253,900
Research and development credit	1,910,800	1,823,200
New hire retention credit	10,600	10,600
	7,055,100	7,120,300
Valuation allowance	-6,113,400	-6,086,100
Total noncurrent	$941,700	$1,034,200

Note_15_Income_Taxes_Details_R1

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details) - Reconciliation of the Total Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits: (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of the Total Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits: [Abstract]	'	'
Gross unrecognized tax benefits b beginning balance	$170,000	$131,000
Gross increases - prior period tax positions	2,000	19,000
Gross increases b current period tax positions	8,000	20,000
Gross unrecognized tax benefits b ending balance	$180,000	$170,000

Note_16_Commitments_and_Contin1

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Jul. 14, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
			Fiscal 2013 Bonus Plan [Member]	Fiscal 2013 Bonus Plan [Member]	Fiscal 2013 Bonus Plan [Member]	Fiscal 2013 Bonus Plan [Member]	Trade Joint Venture Receivables [Member]	Trade Joint Venture Receivables [Member]
			Executive Officer [Member]
Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage of Individual Bonus Payout Determined By Actual Versus Targeted EBITOI Results	'	'	75.00%	75.00%	'	'	'	'
Percentage of Individual's Payout Determined Upon Achievement of Certain Pre-Established Individual Performance Objectives	'	'	25.00%	25.00%	'	'	'	'
Accrued Bonuses (in Dollars)	'	'	'	'	$1,460,000	$959,000	'	'
Cash Payment For Real Property (in Dollars)	'	1,100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Payments for Rent (in Dollars)	$17,500	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of Joint Ventures Accounted for a Certain Percentage of Companybs Trade Joint Venture Receivables	'	'	'	'	'	'	3	2
Concentration Risk, Percentage	'	'	'	'	'	'	62.90%	49.00%

Note_17_Statements_of_Cash_Flo2

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'	'
Cash paid during the year for interest	$47,322	$52,215
Note receivable issued for sale of joint venture	$245,594	'

Note_18_Fair_Value_Measurement2

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]	'	'
Fair Value Assets, Transfers Level 1, Level 2, Level 3	$0	$0

Note_18_Fair_Value_Measurement3

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Recurring Basis (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale securities	$5,519,766	'
Cash equivalents	500,234	1,020,000
Total	6,020,000	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale securities	5,519,766	'
Cash equivalents	500,234	1,020,000
Total	$6,020,000	'

Note_19_Quarterly_Information_2

Note 19 - Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (Details) - Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended		15 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	31-May-14	Feb. 28, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Fiscal year 2014:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$7,377,180	$6,920,820	$6,219,008	$6,086,734	$5,877,033	$5,246,350	$26,826,108	$22,501,864	$6,309,100	$5,291,747
Gross profit	2,453,213	2,251,498	2,167,175	1,992,771	1,822,669	1,612,437	9,022,955	7,028,652	2,151,069	1,600,775
Income before income tax expense	1,757,291	1,759,537	1,643,828	2,294,041	1,445,769	985,155	6,663,074	5,617,501	1,502,418	892,536
Income tax expense	305,623	361,280	259,759	332,000	158,000	240,000	1,124,662	864,000	198,000	134,000
Net income	1,451,668	1,398,257	1,384,069	1,962,041	1,287,769	745,155	5,538,412	4,753,501	1,304,418	758,536
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests	209,143	418,040	359,025	346,291	360,657	310,745	1,432,040	1,386,607	445,832	368,914
Net income attributable to NTIC	$1,242,527	$980,217	$1,025,044	$1,615,750	$927,112	$434,410	$4,106,372	$3,366,894	$858,586	$389,622
Net income per share:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Basic (in Dollars per share)	$0.28	$0.22	$0.23	$0.37	$0.21	$0.10	$0.92	$0.76	$0.19	$0.09
Diluted (in Dollars per share)	$0.27	$0.21	$0.22	$0.36	$0.21	$0.10	$0.90	$0.75	$0.19	$0.09
Weighted average common shares assumed outstanding:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Basic (in Shares)	4,487,478	4,461,880	4,434,837	4,431,948	4,421,379	4,418,821	'	'	4,434,770	4,406,205
Diluted (in Shares)	4,592,208	4,590,344	4,579,603	4,501,017	4,468,861	4,485,076	4,579,498	4,475,895	4,552,669	4,440,436