Northern Technologies International (NTIC) 10-K 21 Nov 17 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Nov. 20, 2017	Feb. 28, 2017
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Northern Technologies International Corporation
Entity Central Index Key	875,582
Trading Symbol	ntic
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--08-31
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		4,537,408
Entity Public Float			$ 58.6
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Aug. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 6,360,201	$ 3,395,274
Available for sale securities	3,766,984	2,243,864
Trade excluding joint ventures, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $40,000 at both August 31, 2017 and 2016	5,912,631	4,755,320
Trade joint ventures	691,752	791,903
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	1,302,944	1,406,587
Income taxes	137,256	215,905
Inventories	7,456,552	7,711,287
Prepaid expenses	439,298	422,031
Total current assets	26,067,618	20,942,171
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET	7,359,662	7,275,872
OTHER ASSETS:
Investments in joint ventures	20,035,074	19,840,774
Deferred income taxes	1,756,565	1,639,762
Patents and trademarks, net	1,322,089	1,278,597
Other	71,685	92,874
Total other assets	23,185,413	22,852,007
Total assets	56,612,693	51,070,050
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable	2,676,610	2,753,903
Accrued liabilities:
Payroll and related benefits	1,540,386	938,363
Other	677,621	301,836
Total current liabilities	4,894,617	3,994,102
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 16)
EQUITY:
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized 10,000 shares; none issued and outstanding
Common stock, $0.02 par value per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 4,535,018 and 4,533,416, respectively	90,700	90,668
Additional paid-in capital	14,163,509	13,798,567
Retained earnings	37,077,483	33,655,357
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(2,471,064)	(3,009,617)
Stockholders’ equity	48,860,628	44,534,975
Non-controlling interests	2,857,448	2,540,973
Total equity	51,718,076	47,075,948
Total liabilities and equity	$ 56,612,693	$ 51,070,050

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Trade allowance	$ 40,000	$ 40,000
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	10,000	10,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.02	$ 0.02
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	10,000,000	10,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	4,535,018	4,533,416
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	4,535,018	4,533,416

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
NET SALES:
Net sales, excluding joint ventures	$ 36,346,645	$ 30,211,660
Net sales, to joint ventures	3,222,478	2,721,905
Total net sales	39,569,123	32,933,565
Cost of goods sold	26,316,511	22,320,156
Gross profit	13,252,612	10,613,409
JOINT VENTURE OPERATIONS:
Equity in income from joint ventures	5,898,908	4,743,831
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	5,452,687	5,137,710
Total joint venture operations	11,351,595	9,881,541
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling expenses	9,283,310	6,255,353
General and administrative expenses	7,807,563	8,232,369
Research and development expenses	2,912,393	4,724,596
Total operating expenses	20,003,266	19,212,318
OPERATING INCOME	4,600,941	1,282,632
INTEREST INCOME	43,539	42,115
INTEREST EXPENSE	(20,382)	(13,261)
IMPAIRMENT ON INVESTMENT AT CARRYING VALUE (Note 7)		(1,883,668)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE	4,624,098	(572,182)
INCOME TAX EXPENSE	699,519	626,120
NET INCOME (LOSS)	3,924,579	(1,198,302)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS	502,453	(330,788)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC	$ 3,422,126	$ (867,514)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.76	$ (0.19)
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.75	$ (0.19)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES
Basic (in shares)	4,528,611	4,537,504
Diluted (in shares)	4,577,359	4,537,504

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
NET INCOME (LOSS)	$ 3,924,579	$ (1,198,302)
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) – FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENT	552,575	223,253
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	4,477,154	(975,049)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS	516,475	(278,729)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NTIC	$ 3,960,679	$ (696,320)

Consolidated Statements of Equi

Consolidated Statements of Equity - USD ($)	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]	Total
Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2015	4,539,045
Balance at Aug. 31, 2015	$ 90,781	$ 13,441,264	$ 34,522,871	$ (3,180,811)	$ 3,019,702	$ 47,893,807
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(11,211)
Repurchase of common stock	$ (225)	(138,656)				(138,881)
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	5,582
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	$ 112	68,522				68,634
Stock option expense		427,437				427,437
Dividend received by non-controlling interest					(200,000)	(200,000)
Comprehensive income (loss)			(867,514)	171,194	(278,729)	$ (975,049)
Stock options exercised (in shares)						0
Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2016	4,533,416
Balance at Aug. 31, 2016	$ 90,668	13,798,567	33,655,357	(3,009,617)	2,540,973	$ 47,075,948
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(14,525)					(14,525)
Repurchase of common stock	$ (291)	(195,934)				$ (196,225)
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	4,127
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	$ 83	46,453				46,536
Stock option expense		391,664				391,664
Dividend received by non-controlling interest					(200,000)	(200,000)
Comprehensive income (loss)			3,422,126	538,553	516,475	$ 4,477,154
Stock options exercised (in shares)	12,000					12,000
Stock options exercised	$ 240	122,759				$ 122,999
Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2017	4,535,018
Balance at Aug. 31, 2017	$ 90,700	$ 14,163,509	$ 37,077,483	$ (2,471,064)	$ 2,857,448	$ 51,718,076

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$ 3,924,579	$ (1,198,302)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensation	391,664	427,437
Depreciation expense	787,111	660,008
Amortization	119,033	119,032
Equity in income from joint ventures	(5,898,908)	(4,743,831)
Dividends received from joint ventures	6,377,054	5,503,314
Impairment on investment at carrying value		1,883,668
Loss on disposal of property and equipment	50,000
Deferred income taxes	(117,298)	(47,000)
Receivables:
Trade, excluding joint ventures	(1,092,187)	(723,798)
Trade, joint ventures	100,151	(146,526)
Fees for services provided to joint ventures	103,643	42,575
Income taxes	90,926	(40,859)
Inventories	305,268	(257,826)
Prepaid expenses and other	8,454	17,023
Accounts payable	(129,371)	641,631
Income tax payable	(27,297)	42,984
Accrued liabilities	742,869	(123,924)
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,735,691	2,055,606
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Additions to property and equipment	(922,270)	(643,407)
Purchase of available for sale securities	(3,000,000)	(216,423)
Proceeds from the sale of available for sale securities	1,476,880
Additions to patents	(162,525)	(135,410)
Net cash used in investing activities	(2,607,915)	(995,240)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Dividend received by non-controlling interest	(200,000)	(200,000)
Repurchase of common stock	(196,225)	(138,881)
Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan	46,536	68,634
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	122,999
Net cash used in financing activities	(226,690)	(270,247)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	63,839	(18,826)
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	2,964,925	771,293
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR	3,395,274	2,623,981
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR	$ 6,360,199	$ 3,395,274

Note 1 - Nature of Business and

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	1. Nature of Business 60 ® ® 40 ® two The Company participates, either directly or indirectly, in 20 ® 50% not 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 not Non-Controlling Interests 90% 85% 60% Net Sales no Revenue Recognition Trade Receivable 30 not not $40,000 August 31, 2017 2016. Trade Receivables from Joint Ventures 90 not not August 31, 2017 2016. Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures – Cash and Cash Equivalents three may Available for Sale Securities Inventories first first Property and Depreciation Buildings and improvements (years) 5 - 30 Machinery and equipment (years) 3 - 10 Patents and Trademarks Investments in Joint Ventures zero August 31 not may August 31, 2017 2016. 20% The Company classifies distributions received from its joint ventures based on the nature of the distributions, generally, as a return on its investment in operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows. Investment at Carrying Value no no Investments are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other-than-temporary. Fair value is calculated based on publicly available market information or other estimates determined by management. The Company employs a systematic methodology on a quarterly basis that considers available quantitative and qualitative evidence in evaluating potential impairment of our investments. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, the Company evaluates, among other factors, general market conditions, credit quality, the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost, and for equity securities, the Company’s intent and ability to hold, or plans to sell, the investment. The Company also considers specific adverse conditions related to the financial health of and business outlook for the investee, including industry and sector performance, changes in technology, and operational and financing cash flow factors. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded to other income (expense) and a new cost basis in the investment is established. Recoverability of Long-Lived Assets may not Income Taxes The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two not not 50 Foreign Currency Translation (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) The Company (excluding NTIC China, Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India, NTI Asean, Zerust Mexico, NTI Europe 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 Fair Value of Financial Instruments Shipping and Handling Research and Development Common Stock Stock-Based Compensation Use of Estimates Certain amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements for the previous reporting period have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Expenses previously recorded as “Expenses incurred in support of joint ventures” have been reclassified as “General and administrative expenses” based on the reduction in direct costs associated with supporting the joint ventures.

Note 2 - Recently Issued Accoun

Note 2 - Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]	2. In May 2014, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, Topic 606 No. 2014 09 2018. July 2015, one first 2019. 2014 09 In July 2015, No. 2015 11, Inventory first first 2018, not 2015 11 During February 2016, No. 2016 02, Leases No. 2016 02 12 No. 2016 02 December 15, 2018, No. 2016 02 In March 2016, No. 2016 07, Investments – Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323 2016 07 no December 15, 2016. 2016 07 In March 2016, 2016 09, Stock Compensation December 15, 2016, 2016 09 In August 2016, No. 2016 15, Statement of Cash Flows, Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments 2016 15 zero 2016 15 December 15, 2017. 2016 15 not Although there are several other new accounting pronouncements issued or proposed by the FASB, which the Company has adopted or will adopt, as applicable, the Company does not

Note 3 - Inventories

Note 3 - Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]	3. Inventories consisted of the following: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Production materials $ 1,747,189 $ 1,452,396 Finished goods 5,709,636 6,258,891 $ 7,456,552 $ 7,711,287

Note 4 - Property and Equipment

Note 4 - Property and Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	4. Property and equipment, net consisted of the following: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Land $ 310,365 $ 310,365 Buildings and improvements 6,847,177 6,528,252 Machinery and equipment 4,171,387 3,590,063 11,328,929 10,428,680 Less accumulated depreciation (3,969,267 ) (3,152,808 ) $ 7,359,662 $ 7,275,872

Note 5 - Patents and Trademarks

Note 5 - Patents and Trademarks, Net	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	5. Patents and trademarks, net consisted of the following: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Patents and trademarks $ 2,737,959 $ 2,575,435 Less accumulated amortization (1,415,870 ) (1,296,838 ) $ 1,322,089 $ 1,278,597 Patent and trademark costs are amortized over seven $119,033 $119,032 August 31, 2017 2016, $120,000 five

Note 6 - Investments in Joint V

Note 6 - Investments in Joint Ventures	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]	6. 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 consolidated 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 that remain on the balance sheet on sales from the Company to its joint ventures and from joint ventures to other joint ventures have been eliminated for financial reporting purposes. Financial information from the audited and unaudited financial statements of the Company’s joint ventures in Germany, Excor Korrosionsschutz – Technologien und Produkte GmbH (EXCOR) and all the Company’s other joint ventures, are summarized as follows: As of August 31, 2017 Total EXCOR All Other Current assets $ 51,518,210 $ 22,142,514 $ 29,375,696 Total assets 55,633,891 24,301,194 31,332,697 Current liabilities 15,118,074 4,469,567 10,648,507 Noncurrent liabilities 181,210 — 181,210 Joint ventures’ equity 40,334,607 19,831,627 20,502,980 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity 20,035,074 9,915,816 10,119,258 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings $ 17,960,860 $ 9,884,911 $ 8,075,949 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 Total EXCOR All Other Net sales $ 101,261,132 $ 39,849,757 $ 61,411,375 Gross profit 44,861,300 21,133,632 23,727,668 Net income 11,839,933 8,369,728 3,470,205 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income of joint ventures 5,898,908 4,185,988 1,712,920 Northern Technologies International Corporation's dividends received from joint ventures $ 6,377,054 $ 5,379,062 $ 997,992 As of August 31, 2016 Total EXCOR All Other Current assets $ 48,922,924 $ 22,928,810 $ 25,994,114 Total assets 52,407,026 24,733,340 27,673,686 Current liabilities 12,433,700 3,485,231 8,948,469 Noncurrent liabilities 100,783 — 100,783 Joint ventures’ equity 39,872,543 21,248,109 18,624,434 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity 19,840,774 10,624,056 9,216,728 Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings $ 17,779,912 $ 10,593,151 $ 7,186,761 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016 Total EXCOR All Other Net sales $ 90,646,833 $ 35,138,214 $ 55,508,619 Gross profit 40,440,726 18,635,421 21,805,305 Net income 9,534,771 7,049,462 2,485,309 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures 4,743,831 3,534,113 1,209,718 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s dividends received from joint ventures $ 5,503,314 $ 4,364,700 $ 1,165,614 The Company did not 2017 2016.

Note 7 - China Operations

Note 7 - China Operations	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	7. Effective December 31, 2014, January 1, 2015. December 31, 2014, Since it began the process of liquidating the joint venture entity on December 31, 2014, not not August 31, 2017 2016. fourth 2016, 16 $0 August 31, 2016 16

Note 8 - Corporate Debt

Note 8 - Corporate Debt	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	8. The Company has a revolving line of credit with PNC Bank of $3,000,000. No August 31, 2017 2016. 2.15% January 7, 2018. The line of credit is subject to 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. August 31, 2017, The revolving credit facility allows the Company to request that PNC Bank issue letters of credit up to $1,200,000. not August 31, 2017 2016 not As of August 31, 2017, $89,543 2020 2022.

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	9. On January 15, 2015, $3,000,000 no may August 31, 2017, $2,640,548 During fiscal 2017, 14,525 $13.51 2017, 12,000 $10.25 The Company granted stock options under the Northern Technologies International Corporation Amended and Restated 2007 2007 56,677 2017. $13.40, No 2016. The Company granted stock options under the 2007 53,447 2016. $14.85,

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) Per

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	10. Basic net income (loss) per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net income (loss) per share assumes the exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method, if dilutive. The following is a reconciliation of the earnings per share computation: Numerator: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to NTIC $ 3,422,126 $ (867,514 ) Denominator: Basic-weighted shares outstanding 4,528,611 4,537,504 Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options 48,748 — Diluted – weighted shares outstanding 4,577,359 4,537,504 Basic income (loss) earnings per share: $ 0.76 $ (0.19 ) Diluted income (loss) earnings per share: $ 0.75 $ (0.19 ) 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. There were 48,067 August 31, 2017 170,887 August 31, 2016 2016.

Note 11 - Stock-based Compensat

Note 11 - Stock-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	11. The Company has two 2007 2007 The 2007 2007 800,000 2007 2007 ten three four one August 31, 2017, 2007 The maximum number of shares of common stock of the Company available for issuance under the ESPP is 100,000 six September 1 March 1 90% may not 423 1986, 3,029 2,438 September 1, 2016 2015, 1,098 3,144 March 1, 2017 2016, 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 $391,664 $427,437 2017 2016, August 31, 2017, not $239,400. $159,600 $79,800 2018 2019, August 31, 2017. 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: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Dividend yield 0.00 % 0.00 % Expected volatility 46.0 % 46.6 % Expected life of option (years) 10 10 Weighted average risk-free interest rate 1.63 % 1.63 % Stock option activity during the periods indicated is as follows: Number of Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Outstanding at August 31, 2015 241,734 $ 13.72 Options granted 53,447 14.85 Options exercised 0 0.00 Options terminated (12,000 ) 13.38 Outstanding at August 31, 2016 283,181 13.95 Options granted 56,677 13.40 Options exercised (12,000 ) 10.25 Options terminated (20,000 ) 15.21 Outstanding at August 31, 2017 307,858 $ 13.93 $ 1,238,009 Exercisable at August 31, 2017 221,027 $ 13.76 $ 942,314 The weighted average per share fair value of options granted during fiscal 2017 2016 $7.69 $8.48, August 31, 2017 2016, 6.77 6.46

Note 12 - Segment and Geographi

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	12. Segment Information The Company’s chief operating decision maker (CODM) is its Chief Executive Officer. The Company’s business is organized into two ® ® ® 40 ® The following tables present the Company’s business segment information in fiscal 2017 2016: Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 ZERUST ® $ 32,789,283 $ 27,577,566 Natur-Tec ® 6,779,840 5,355,999 Total net sales $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565 The following table sets forth the Company’s cost of goods sold for fiscal 2017 2016 Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 Direct cost of goods sold ZERUST® $ 18,996,264 $ 15,588,133 Natur-Tec® 4,925,061 4,076,249 Indirect cost of goods sold 2,395,186 2,655,774 Total net cost of goods sold $ 26,316,511 $ 22,320,156 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 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 All joint venture operations including equity in income, fees for services and related dividends are related to ZERUST ® Geographic Information Net sales by geographic location were as follows: Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Inside the U.S.A. to unaffiliated customers $ 21,787,694 $ 20,304,480 Outside the U.S.A. to: Joint ventures in which the Company is a shareholder directly and indirectly 3,222,478 2,721,905 Unaffiliated customers 14,558,951 9,907,180 $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565 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 2017 2016, Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 Germany $ 838,628 $ 845,857 Poland 661,226 599,391 Japan 641,699 646,015 Sweden 472,819 265,745 Thailand 448,013 537,212 France 410,842 329,805 South Korea 376,002 352,393 India 322,677 300,506 Czech 314,834 237,062 United Kingdom 295,761 386,761 Finland 292,225 252,578 Other 377,962 384,385 $ 5,452,687 $ 5,137,710 Sales to the Company’s joint ventures are included in the foregoing segment and geographic information; however, sales by the Company’s joint ventures to other parties are not See Note 6 The geographical distribution of total long-lived assets and net sales is as follows: At August 31, 2017 At August 31, 2016 China $ 228,458 $ 253,931 Brazil 54,646 66,938 Germany 14,171 — India 14,712 13,645 United States 7,047,675 8,219,955 Total long-lived assets $ 7,359,662 $ 8,554,469 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016 China $ 7,225,659 $ 4,114,288 Brazil 2,394,730 2,172,297 Germany 711,923 — India 1,417,955 1,104,947 Other 6,031,162 5,237,553 United States 21,787,694 20,304,480 Total net sales $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565 Total long-lived assets located in China, Brazil, Germany and India consist of property and equipment. 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. Sales to the Company’s joint ventures are included in the foregoing segment and geographic information; however, sales by the Company’s joint ventures to other parties are not All joint venture operations including equity in income, fees for services and related dividends are related to ZERUST ®

Note 13 - Retirement Plan

Note 13 - Retirement Plan	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	13. The Company has a 401 may 15% 50% 3.5% $202,559 $215,785 2017 2016,

Note 14 - Related Party Transac

Note 14 - Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	14. During fiscal 2017 2016, $137,666 $100,000, $10,136 $31,463,

Note 15 - Income Taxes

Note 15 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	15. The provision for income taxes for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2017 2016 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Current: Federal $ — $ — State 62,000 20,000 Foreign 754,000 647,000 816,000 667,000 Deferred: Federal (135,000 ) 6,000 State (9,000 ) — Foreign 28,000 (47,000 ) (116,000 ) (41,000 ) $ 700,000 $ 626,000 Reconciliations of the expected federal income tax at the statutory rate with the provisions for income taxes for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2017 2016 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Tax computed at statutory rates $ 1,591,000 $ (195,000 ) State income tax, net of federal benefit 53,000 20,000 Tax effect on equity in income of international joint ventures (1,998,000 ) (956,000 ) Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures and investment at carrying value 3,159,000 2,681,000 Tax effect of foreign operations 841,000 997,000 Foreign tax credit (3,680,000 ) (3,178,000 ) Research and development credit (212,000 ) (408,000 ) Valuation allowance 989,000 1,620,000 Stock based compensation 81,000 90,000 Non-controlling interest (143,000 ) (148,000 ) Other 19,000 103,000 $ 700,000 $ 626,000 The Company has not $17,960,860 $17,779,912 August 31, 2017 2016, 2016, $3,000 not not The tax effect of the temporary differences and tax carryforwards comprising the net deferred taxes shown on the consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2017 2016 August 31, 2017 2016 Accrued compensation $ 310,300 $ 150,600 Inventory costs 87,000 95,300 Accrued joint venture expenses 15,200 54,200 Other accrued expenses 74,000 87,000 Goodwill and other intangible assets 1,317,700 1,332,000 Stock-based compensation 241,600 210,600 Foreign tax credit carryforward 6,105,700 5,679,000 Other credit and loss carryforwards 3,473,100 3,214,300 Total deferred tax assets 11,624,600 10,823,000 Valuation allowance (9,578,700 ) (8,893,300 ) Total deferred tax assets after valuation allowance 2,045,900 1,929,700 Property and equipment (206,000 ) (215,600 ) Other (83,300 ) (74,300 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (289,300 ) (289,900 ) Net deferred tax assets $ 1,756,600 $ 1,639,800 As of August 31, 2017 $6,105,700 not August 31, 2021. $2,855,100 August 31, 2017 2019. $618,000 August 31, 2017 2020. As of August 31, 2017, $6,105,700 $2,855,100 $618,000 As of August 31, 2016, $5,679,000 $2,643,300 $571,000 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 not not not not not not not The following is a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits: Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Gross unrecognized tax benefits – beginning balance $ 238,000 $ 203,000 Gross increases (decreases) - prior period tax positions (4,000 ) 15,000 Gross increases – current period tax positions 16,000 20,000 Gross unrecognized tax benefits – ending balance $ 250,000 $ 238,000 The entire amount of unrecognized tax benefits would affect the effective tax rate. It is not 12 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 August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016. The Company is subject to taxation in the United States and various states and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, as of August 31, 2017, no August 31, 2014.

Note 16 - Commitments and Conti

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	16. On August 31, 2017, August 31, 2018. 2018 75% 2018 2018 25% may 2018. On August 26, 2016, August 31, 2017. 2017 75% 2017 2017 25% may 2017. Accrued bonuses as of August 31, 2017 2016 $1,015,000 $450,000, Three joint ventures (consisting of the Company’s joint ventures in South Korea, Thailand and India) accounted for 60.7% August 31, 2017, three 55.8% August 31, 2016. On March 23, 2015, No 1 two On April 21, 2015, September 20, 2017, September 18, 2017, not From time to time, the Company is subject to various other 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 could 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 not not may August 31, 2017, not The Company has leases for office and warehouse space in the United States of America, China, India, Germany and Brazil with monthly rents ranging from $814 $11,539, August 31, 2023. five August 31: Fiscal 2018 $ 264,919 Fiscal 2019 146,635 Fiscal 2020 109,209 Fiscal 2021 66,647 Fiscal 2022 67,133 Thereafter 47,884 $ 702,427

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Fl

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]	17. Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information consist of: Fiscal Year Ended 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for income tax $ 699,519 $ 610,000 Cash paid during the year for interest 20,382 13,261

Note 18 - Fair Value Measuremen

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
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 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 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 Fair value as of Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Available for sale securities $ 3,766,984 $ 3,766,984 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements Fair value as of Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Available for sale securities $ 2,243,864 $ 2,243,864 $ — $ — Valuation Techniques Financial assets that are classified as Level 1 The Company reviews the fair value hierarchy classification on a quarterly basis. Changes in the ability to observe valuation inputs may no 1, 2, 3 August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016. 3,

Note 19 - Subsequent Event

Note 19 - Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	19. SUBSEQUENT EVENT On November 20, 2017, $0.10 December 21, 2017 December 8, 2017.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Principles of Consolidation not
Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Non-Controlling Interests 90% 85% 60%
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]	Net Sales no Revenue Recognition
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Trade Receivable 30 not not $40,000 August 31, 2017 2016.
Receivables from Joint Ventures Policy [Policy Text Block ]	Trade Receivables from Joint Ventures 90 not not August 31, 2017 2016. Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures –
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents three may
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Available for Sale Securities
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Inventories first first
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property and Depreciation Buildings and improvements (years) 5 - 30 Machinery and equipment (years) 3 - 10
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Patents and Trademarks
Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block]	Investments in Joint Ventures zero August 31 not may August 31, 2017 2016. 20% The Company classifies distributions received from its joint ventures based on the nature of the distributions, generally, as a return on its investment in operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows. Investment at Carrying Value no no Investments are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other-than-temporary. Fair value is calculated based on publicly available market information or other estimates determined by management. The Company employs a systematic methodology on a quarterly basis that considers available quantitative and qualitative evidence in evaluating potential impairment of our investments. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, the Company evaluates, among other factors, general market conditions, credit quality, the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost, and for equity securities, the Company’s intent and ability to hold, or plans to sell, the investment. The Company also considers specific adverse conditions related to the financial health of and business outlook for the investee, including industry and sector performance, changes in technology, and operational and financing cash flow factors. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded to other income (expense) and a new cost basis in the investment is established.
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Recoverability of Long-Lived Assets may not
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two not not 50
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]	Foreign Currency Translation (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) The Company (excluding NTIC China, Zerust Brazil, Natur-Tec India, NTI Asean, Zerust Mexico, NTI Europe 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
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Shipping and Handling
Research, Development, and Computer Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Research and Development
Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Common Stock
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	Stock-Based Compensation
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Use of Estimates Certain amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements for the previous reporting period have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Expenses previously recorded as “Expenses incurred in support of joint ventures” have been reclassified as “General and administrative expenses” based on the reduction in direct costs associated with supporting the joint ventures.

Note 1 - Nature of Business a28

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Property and Equipment Useful Life [Table Text Block]	Buildings and improvements (years) 5 - 30 Machinery and equipment (years) 3 - 10

Note 3 - Inventories (Tables)

Note 3 - Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Production materials $ 1,747,189 $ 1,452,396 Finished goods 5,709,636 6,258,891 $ 7,456,552 $ 7,711,287

Note 4 - Property and Equipme30

Note 4 - Property and Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Land $ 310,365 $ 310,365 Buildings and improvements 6,847,177 6,528,252 Machinery and equipment 4,171,387 3,590,063 11,328,929 10,428,680 Less accumulated depreciation (3,969,267 ) (3,152,808 ) $ 7,359,662 $ 7,275,872

Note 5 - Patents and Trademar31

Note 5 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Patents and trademarks $ 2,737,959 $ 2,575,435 Less accumulated amortization (1,415,870 ) (1,296,838 ) $ 1,322,089 $ 1,278,597

Note 6 - Investments in Joint32

Note 6 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]	As of August 31, 2017 Total EXCOR All Other Current assets $ 51,518,210 $ 22,142,514 $ 29,375,696 Total assets 55,633,891 24,301,194 31,332,697 Current liabilities 15,118,074 4,469,567 10,648,507 Noncurrent liabilities 181,210 — 181,210 Joint ventures’ equity 40,334,607 19,831,627 20,502,980 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity 20,035,074 9,915,816 10,119,258 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings $ 17,960,860 $ 9,884,911 $ 8,075,949 As of August 31, 2016 Total EXCOR All Other Current assets $ 48,922,924 $ 22,928,810 $ 25,994,114 Total assets 52,407,026 24,733,340 27,673,686 Current liabilities 12,433,700 3,485,231 8,948,469 Noncurrent liabilities 100,783 — 100,783 Joint ventures’ equity 39,872,543 21,248,109 18,624,434 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity 19,840,774 10,624,056 9,216,728 Northern Technologies International Corporation's share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings $ 17,779,912 $ 10,593,151 $ 7,186,761
Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 Total EXCOR All Other Net sales $ 101,261,132 $ 39,849,757 $ 61,411,375 Gross profit 44,861,300 21,133,632 23,727,668 Net income 11,839,933 8,369,728 3,470,205 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income of joint ventures 5,898,908 4,185,988 1,712,920 Northern Technologies International Corporation's dividends received from joint ventures $ 6,377,054 $ 5,379,062 $ 997,992 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016 Total EXCOR All Other Net sales $ 90,646,833 $ 35,138,214 $ 55,508,619 Gross profit 40,440,726 18,635,421 21,805,305 Net income 9,534,771 7,049,462 2,485,309 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income from joint ventures 4,743,831 3,534,113 1,209,718 Northern Technologies International Corporation’s dividends received from joint ventures $ 5,503,314 $ 4,364,700 $ 1,165,614

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) P33

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Numerator: August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to NTIC $ 3,422,126 $ (867,514 ) Denominator: Basic-weighted shares outstanding 4,528,611 4,537,504 Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options 48,748 — Diluted – weighted shares outstanding 4,577,359 4,537,504 Basic income (loss) earnings per share: $ 0.76 $ (0.19 ) Diluted income (loss) earnings per share: $ 0.75 $ (0.19 )

Note 11 - Stock-based Compens34

Note 11 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	August 31, 2017 August 31, 2016 Dividend yield 0.00 % 0.00 % Expected volatility 46.0 % 46.6 % Expected life of option (years) 10 10 Weighted average risk-free interest rate 1.63 % 1.63 %
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	Number of Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Outstanding at August 31, 2015 241,734 $ 13.72 Options granted 53,447 14.85 Options exercised 0 0.00 Options terminated (12,000 ) 13.38 Outstanding at August 31, 2016 283,181 13.95 Options granted 56,677 13.40 Options exercised (12,000 ) 10.25 Options terminated (20,000 ) 15.21 Outstanding at August 31, 2017 307,858 $ 13.93 $ 1,238,009 Exercisable at August 31, 2017 221,027 $ 13.76 $ 942,314

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp35

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 ZERUST ® $ 32,789,283 $ 27,577,566 Natur-Tec ® 6,779,840 5,355,999 Total net sales $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565
Reconciliation of Cost of Goods Sold from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 Direct cost of goods sold ZERUST® $ 18,996,264 $ 15,588,133 Natur-Tec® 4,925,061 4,076,249 Indirect cost of goods sold 2,395,186 2,655,774 Total net cost of goods sold $ 26,316,511 $ 22,320,156
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Inside the U.S.A. to unaffiliated customers $ 21,787,694 $ 20,304,480 Outside the U.S.A. to: Joint ventures in which the Company is a shareholder directly and indirectly 3,222,478 2,721,905 Unaffiliated customers 14,558,951 9,907,180 $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block]	At August 31, 2017 At August 31, 2016 China $ 228,458 $ 253,931 Brazil 54,646 66,938 Germany 14,171 — India 14,712 13,645 United States 7,047,675 8,219,955 Total long-lived assets $ 7,359,662 $ 8,554,469
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2016 China $ 7,225,659 $ 4,114,288 Brazil 2,394,730 2,172,297 Germany 711,923 — India 1,417,955 1,104,947 Other 6,031,162 5,237,553 United States 21,787,694 20,304,480 Total net sales $ 39,569,123 $ 32,933,565
Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures [Member]
Notes Tables
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016 Germany $ 838,628 $ 845,857 Poland 661,226 599,391 Japan 641,699 646,015 Sweden 472,819 265,745 Thailand 448,013 537,212 France 410,842 329,805 South Korea 376,002 352,393 India 322,677 300,506 Czech 314,834 237,062 United Kingdom 295,761 386,761 Finland 292,225 252,578 Other 377,962 384,385 $ 5,452,687 $ 5,137,710

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Tables)

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Current: Federal $ — $ — State 62,000 20,000 Foreign 754,000 647,000 816,000 667,000 Deferred: Federal (135,000 ) 6,000 State (9,000 ) — Foreign 28,000 (47,000 ) (116,000 ) (41,000 ) $ 700,000 $ 626,000
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Tax computed at statutory rates $ 1,591,000 $ (195,000 ) State income tax, net of federal benefit 53,000 20,000 Tax effect on equity in income of international joint ventures (1,998,000 ) (956,000 ) Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures and investment at carrying value 3,159,000 2,681,000 Tax effect of foreign operations 841,000 997,000 Foreign tax credit (3,680,000 ) (3,178,000 ) Research and development credit (212,000 ) (408,000 ) Valuation allowance 989,000 1,620,000 Stock based compensation 81,000 90,000 Non-controlling interest (143,000 ) (148,000 ) Other 19,000 103,000 $ 700,000 $ 626,000
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	August 31, 2017 2016 Accrued compensation $ 310,300 $ 150,600 Inventory costs 87,000 95,300 Accrued joint venture expenses 15,200 54,200 Other accrued expenses 74,000 87,000 Goodwill and other intangible assets 1,317,700 1,332,000 Stock-based compensation 241,600 210,600 Foreign tax credit carryforward 6,105,700 5,679,000 Other credit and loss carryforwards 3,473,100 3,214,300 Total deferred tax assets 11,624,600 10,823,000 Valuation allowance (9,578,700 ) (8,893,300 ) Total deferred tax assets after valuation allowance 2,045,900 1,929,700 Property and equipment (206,000 ) (215,600 ) Other (83,300 ) (74,300 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (289,300 ) (289,900 ) Net deferred tax assets $ 1,756,600 $ 1,639,800
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended August 31, 2017 2016 Gross unrecognized tax benefits – beginning balance $ 238,000 $ 203,000 Gross increases (decreases) - prior period tax positions (4,000 ) 15,000 Gross increases – current period tax positions 16,000 20,000 Gross unrecognized tax benefits – ending balance $ 250,000 $ 238,000

Note 16 - Commitments and Con37

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	Fiscal 2018 $ 264,919 Fiscal 2019 146,635 Fiscal 2020 109,209 Fiscal 2021 66,647 Fiscal 2022 67,133 Thereafter 47,884 $ 702,427

Note 17 - Statements of Cash 38

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	Fiscal Year Ended 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for income tax $ 699,519 $ 610,000 Cash paid during the year for interest 20,382 13,261

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurem39

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Notes Tables
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]	Fair Value Measurements Fair value as of Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Available for sale securities $ 3,766,984 $ 3,766,984 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements Fair value as of Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Available for sale securities $ 2,243,864 $ 2,243,864 $ — $ —

Note 1 - Nature of Business a40

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)
Number of Countries in which Entity Operates	60
Number of Operating Segments	2
Number of Joint Venture Arrangements	20
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	$ 40,000	$ 40,000
NaturTec [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	90.00%
Zerust Brazil [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	85.00%
NTI Asean LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	60.00%
Maximum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	50.00%

Note 1 - Nature of Business a41

Note 1 - Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment, Useful Life (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property and equipment (Year)	5 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property and equipment (Year)	30 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property and equipment (Year)	3 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property and equipment (Year)	10 years

Note 3 - Inventories - Inventor

Note 3 - Inventories - Inventories (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Production materials	$ 1,747,189	$ 1,452,396
Finished goods	5,709,636	6,258,891
Total inventory	$ 7,456,552	$ 7,711,287

Note 4 - Property and Equipme43

Note 4 - Property and Equipment, Net - Components of Property and Equipment, Net (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Land	$ 310,365	$ 310,365
Buildings and improvements	6,847,177	6,528,252
Machinery and equipment	4,171,387	3,590,063
Gross	11,328,929	10,428,680
Less accumulated depreciation	(3,969,267)	(3,152,808)
Net	$ 7,359,662	$ 7,275,872

Note 5 - Patents and Trademar44

Note 5 - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Amortization	$ 119,033	$ 119,032
Patents and Trademarks [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	7 years
Amortization	$ 119,033	$ 119,032
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	120,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	120,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	120,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	120,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	$ 120,000

Note 5 - Patents and Trademar45

Note 5 - Patents and Trademarks, Net - Patents and Trademarks, Net (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Patents and trademarkes, net	$ 1,322,089	$ 1,278,597
Patents and Trademarks [Member]
Patents and trademarks	2,737,959	2,575,435
Less accumulated amortization	(1,415,870)	(1,296,838)
Patents and trademarkes, net	$ 1,322,089	$ 1,278,597

Note 6 - Investments in Joint46

Note 6 - Investments in Joint Ventures (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture	$ 0	$ 0

Note 6 - Investments in Joint47

Note 6 - Investments in Joint Ventures - Condensed Balance Sheet of EXCOR and All Other Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Current assets	$ 51,518,210	$ 48,922,924
Total assets	55,633,891	52,407,026
Current liabilities	15,118,074	12,433,700
Noncurrent liabilities	181,210	100,783
Joint ventures’ equity	40,334,607	39,872,543
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity	20,035,074	19,840,774
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	17,960,860	17,779,912
EXCOR [Member]
Current assets	22,142,514	22,928,810
Total assets	24,301,194	24,733,340
Current liabilities	4,469,567	3,485,231
Noncurrent liabilities
Joint ventures’ equity	19,831,627	21,248,109
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity	9,915,816	10,624,056
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	9,884,911	10,593,151
Joint Venture in India [Member]
Current assets	29,375,696	25,994,114
Total assets	31,332,697	27,673,686
Current liabilities	10,648,507	8,948,469
Noncurrent liabilities	181,210	100,783
Joint ventures’ equity	20,502,980	18,624,434
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ equity	10,119,258	9,216,728
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of joint ventures’ undistributed earnings	$ 8,075,949	$ 7,186,761

Note 6 - Investments in Joint48

Note 6 - Investments in Joint Ventures - Condensed Income Statement of EXCOR and All Other Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Net sales	$ 101,261,132	$ 90,646,833
Gross profit	44,861,300	40,440,726
Net income	11,839,933	9,534,771
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income of joint ventures	5,898,908	4,743,831
Northern Technologies International Corporation's dividends received from joint ventures	6,377,054	5,503,314
EXCOR [Member]
Net sales	39,849,757	35,138,214
Gross profit	21,133,632	18,635,421
Net income	8,369,728	7,049,462
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income of joint ventures	4,185,988	3,534,113
Northern Technologies International Corporation's dividends received from joint ventures	5,379,062	4,364,700
Joint Venture in India [Member]
Net sales	61,411,375	55,508,619
Gross profit	23,727,668	21,805,305
Net income	3,470,205	2,485,309
Northern Technologies International Corporation’s share of equity in income of joint ventures	1,712,920	1,209,718
Northern Technologies International Corporation's dividends received from joint ventures	$ 997,992	$ 1,165,614

Note 7 - China Operations (Deta

Note 7 - China Operations (Details Textual)	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)
Tianjin Zerust [Member]
Cost Method Investments	$ 0

Note 8 - Corporate Debt (Detail

Note 8 - Corporate Debt (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)
Term Loan and Line of Credit, Agreements, Loan Agreements [Member]
Debt Instrument, Covenants, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio	1.1
PNC Bank [Member]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$ 0	$ 0
PNC Bank [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	3,000,000
Long-term Line of Credit	$ 0	$ 0
PNC Bank [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.15%
PNC Bank [Member] | Letter of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 1,200,000
JP Morgan Chase Bank [Member]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$ 89,543

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (

Note 9 - Stockholders' Equity (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016	Jan. 15, 2015
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount			$ 3,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	$ 2,640,548
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	14,525
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share	$ 13.51
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	12,000	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 10.25	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	56,677	53,447
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 13.40	$ 14.85
The 2007 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	56,677	53,447
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 13.40	$ 14.85

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) P52

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share (Details Textual) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	48,067	170,887

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) P53

Note 10 - Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share - Reconciliation of the Earnings Per Share Computations (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Net income (loss) attributable to NTIC	$ 3,422,126	$ (867,514)
Basic-weighted shares outstanding (in shares)	4,528,611	4,537,504
Weighted shares assumed upon exercise of stock options (in shares)	48,748
Diluted – weighted shares outstanding (in shares)	4,577,359	4,537,504
Basic income (loss) earnings per share: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.76	$ (0.19)
Diluted income (loss) earnings per share: (in dollars per share)	$ 0.75	$ (0.19)

Note 11 - Stock-based Compens54

Note 11 - Stock-based Compensation (Details Textual)	Mar. 01, 2017shares	Sep. 01, 2016shares	Mar. 01, 2016shares	Sep. 01, 2015shares	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / shares
Number of Stock-based Compensation Plans					2
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans | shares	1,098	3,029	3,144	2,438
Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense					$ 391,664	$ 427,437
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options					239,400
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Estimate, Next Fiscal Year					159,600
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Estimate, Fiscal Year Two					$ 79,800
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares					$ 7.69	$ 8.48
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term					6 years 281 days	6 years 167 days
The 2007 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized | shares					800,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period					10 years
The 2007 Plan [Member] | One Year after Date of Grant [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period					3 years
The 2007 Plan [Member] | One Year after Date of Grant [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period					4 years
ESPP [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized | shares					100,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent					90.00%

Note 11 - Stock-based Compens55

Note 11 - Stock-based Compensation - Black-Scholes Option-pricing Model Assumptions (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%
Expected volatility	46.00%	46.60%
Expected life of option (Year)	10 years	10 years
Weighted average risk-free interest rate	1.63%	1.63%

Note 11- Stock-based Compensati

Note 11- Stock-based Compensation - Stock Option Activity (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Number of shares, Outstanding (in shares)	283,181	241,734
Weighted average exercise price, Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 13.95	$ 13.72
Number of shares, Options granted (in shares)	56,677	53,447
Weighted average exercise price, Options granted (in dollars per share)	$ 13.40	$ 14.85
Number of shares, Options exercised (in shares)	(12,000)	0
Weighted average exercise price, Options exercised (in dollars per share)	$ 10.25	$ 0
Number of shares, Options terminated (in shares)	(20,000)	(12,000)
Weighted average exercise price, Options terminated (in dollars per share)	$ 15.21	$ 13.38
Number of shares, Outstanding (in shares)	307,858	283,181
Weighted average exercise price, Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 13.93	$ 13.95
Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding	$ 1,238,009
Number of shares, Exercisable (in shares)	221,027
Weighted average exercise price, Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 13.76
Aggregate intrinsic value, Exercisable	$ 942,314

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp57

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017
Number of Reportable Segments	2

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp58

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information - Net Sales by Segment (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Net sales by segment	$ 39,569,123	$ 32,933,565
ZERUST [Member]
Net sales by segment	32,789,283	27,577,566
NaturTec [Member]
Net sales by segment	$ 6,779,840	$ 5,355,999

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp59

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information - Cost of Goods Sold by Segment (Details) - USD ($)		12 Months Ended
		Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Cost of goods sold		$ 26,316,511	$ 22,320,156
Precentage of product sales	[1]		22320156.00%
Direct Cost of Goods Sold [Member] | ZERUST [Member]
Cost of goods sold		18,996,264
Precentage of product sales	[1]		15588133.00%
Direct Cost of Goods Sold [Member] | NaturTec [Member]
Cost of goods sold		4,925,061
Precentage of product sales	[1]		4076249.00%
Indirect Cost of Goods Sold [Member]
Cost of goods sold		$ 2,395,186
Precentage of product sales	[1]		2655774.00%
[1]	The percent of segment sales is calculated by dividing the direct cost of goods sold for each individual segment category by the net sales for each segment category.

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp60

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information - Net Sales by Geographic Location (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Net sales by segment	$ 39,569,123	$ 32,933,565
Inside the USA to Unaffiliated Customers [Member]
Net sales by segment	21,787,694	20,304,480
Joint Ventures in Which the Company is a Shareholder Directly and Indirectly Outside the USA [Member]
Net sales by segment	3,222,478	2,721,905
Unaffiliated Customers Outside the USA [Member]
Net sales by segment	$ 14,558,951	$ 9,907,180

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp61

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information - Fees for Services Provided to Joint Ventures by Geographic Location as a Percentage of Total Fees (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Fees	$ 5,452,687	$ 5,137,710
GERMANY
Fees	838,628	845,857
POLAND
Fees	661,226	599,391
JAPAN
Fees	641,699	646,015
SWEDEN
Fees	472,819	265,745
THAILAND
Fees	448,013	537,212
FRANCE
Fees	410,842	329,805
KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
Fees	376,002	352,393
INDIA
Fees	322,677	300,506
CZECH REPUBLIC
Fees	314,834	237,062
UNITED KINGDOM
Fees	295,761	386,761
FINLAND
Fees	292,225	252,578
Other Countries [Member]
Fees	$ 377,962	$ 384,385

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp62

Note 12 - Segment and Geographic Information - Total Long-lived Assets by Geographic Distribution (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Total long-lived assets	$ 7,359,662	$ 8,554,469
CHINA
Total long-lived assets	228,458	253,931
BRAZIL
Total long-lived assets	54,646	66,938
GERMANY
Total long-lived assets	14,171
INDIA
Total long-lived assets	14,712	13,645
UNITED STATES
Total long-lived assets	$ 7,047,675	$ 8,219,955

Note 12 - Segment and Geograp63

Note 12 - Segment and Geographical Information - Total Net Sales by Geographic Distribution (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Net sales by segment	$ 39,569,123	$ 32,933,565
CHINA
Net sales by segment	7,225,659	4,114,288
BRAZIL
Net sales by segment	2,394,730	2,172,297
GERMANY
Net sales by segment	711,923
INDIA
Net sales by segment	1,417,955	1,104,947
Other Countries [Member]
Net sales by segment	6,031,162	5,237,553
UNITED STATES
Net sales by segment	$ 21,787,694	$ 20,304,480

Note 13 - Retirement Plan (Deta

Note 13 - Retirement Plan (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent	15.00%
Defined Contribution Plan Maximum Amount of Employees Contributions Percent	50.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay	3.50%
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost	$ 202,559	$ 215,785

Note 14 - Related Party Trans65

Note 14 - Related Party Transactions (Details Textual) - Bioplastic Polymers LLC [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Consulting Payment Expense [Member]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$ 137,666	$ 100,000
Royalty Payment Expense [Member]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$ 10,136	$ 31,463

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details

Note 15 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	$ 17,960,860	$ 17,779,912
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(116,000)	(41,000)
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	0	0
Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	618,000
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance	6,105,700	5,679,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance	618,000	571,000
Federal and State Tax [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance	2,855,100	2,643,300
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 2,855,100
Deferred Tax Expenses Related to Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Joint Ventures [Member]
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		$ 3,000

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Provis

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Current:
Federal
State	62,000	20,000
Foreign	754,000	647,000
Total current	816,000	667,000
Deferred:
Federal	(135,000)	6,000
State	(9,000)
Foreign	28,000	(47,000)
Total deferred	(116,000)	(41,000)
Total income tax expense	$ 699,519	$ 626,120

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Reconc

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Reconciliations of the Expected Federal Income Tax at the Statutory Rate with the Provisions for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Tax computed at statutory rates	$ 1,591,000	$ (195,000)
State income tax, net of federal benefit	53,000	20,000
Tax effect on equity in income of international joint ventures	(1,998,000)	(956,000)
Tax effect on dividends received from joint ventures and investment at carrying value	3,159,000	2,681,000
Tax effect of foreign operations	841,000	997,000
Foreign tax credit	(3,680,000)	(3,178,000)
Research and development credit	(212,000)	(408,000)
Valuation allowance	989,000	1,620,000
Stock based compensation	81,000	90,000
Non-controlling interest	(143,000)	(148,000)
Other	19,000	103,000
Total income tax expense	$ 699,519	$ 626,120

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Tax Ef

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Tax Effect of the Temporary Differences and Tax Carry Forwards Comprising Net Deferred Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Accrued compensation	$ 310,300	$ 150,600
Inventory costs	87,000	95,300
Accrued joint venture expenses	15,200	54,200
Other accrued expenses	74,000	87,000
Goodwill and other intangible assets	1,317,700	1,332,000
Stock-based compensation	241,600	210,600
Foreign tax credit carryforward	6,105,700	5,679,000
Other credit and loss carryforwards	3,473,100	3,214,300
Total deferred tax assets	11,624,600	10,823,000
Valuation allowance	(9,578,700)	(8,893,300)
Total deferred tax assets after valuation allowance	2,045,900	1,929,700
Property and equipment	(206,000)	(215,600)
Other	(83,300)	(74,300)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(289,300)	(289,900)
Net deferred tax assets	$ 1,756,600	$ 1,639,800

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Reco70

Note 15 - Income Taxes - Reconciliation of the Total Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Gross unrecognized tax benefits – beginning balance	$ 238,000	$ 203,000
Gross increases (decreases) - prior period tax positions	(4,000)	15,000
Gross increases – current period tax positions	16,000	20,000
Gross unrecognized tax benefits – ending balance	$ 250,000	$ 238,000

Note 16 - Commitments and Con71

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Accrued Bonuses	$ 1,015,000	$ 450,000
Entity Wide Trade Joint Venture Receivables, Four Joint Ventures,Percentage	60.70%	55.80%
Office and Warehouse Space [Member] | United States, China, India, Germany, and Brazil [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Operating Leases, Monthly Rent Expense	$ 814
Office and Warehouse Space [Member] | United States, China, India, Germany, and Brazil [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Operating Leases, Monthly Rent Expense	$ 11,539
Fiscal 2018 Bonus Plan [Member] | Executive Officer [Member]
Percentage of Individual Bonus Payout Determined by Actual Versus Targeted EBITOI Results	75.00%
Percentage of Individuals Payout Determined Upon Achievement of Certain Pre-Established Individual Performance Objectives	25.00%
Fiscal 2017 Bonus Plan [Member] | Executive Officer [Member]
Percentage of Individual Bonus Payout Determined by Actual Versus Targeted EBITOI Results	75.00%
Percentage of Individuals Payout Determined Upon Achievement of Certain Pre-Established Individual Performance Objectives	25.00%

Note 16 - Commitments and Con72

Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies - Future Minimum Rents Due (Details)	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)
Fiscal 2,018	$ 264,919
Fiscal 2,019	146,635
Fiscal 2,020	109,209
Fiscal 2,021	66,647
Fiscal 2,022	67,133
Thereafter	47,884
Total future minimum payments due	$ 702,427

Note 17 - Statements of Cash 73

Note 17 - Statements of Cash Flows - Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Cash paid during the year for income tax	$ 699,519	$ 610,000
Cash paid during the year for interest	$ 20,382	$ 13,261

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurem74

Note 18 - Fair Value Measurements - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Available for sale securities	$ 3,766,984	$ 2,243,864
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Available for sale securities	3,766,984	2,243,864
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Available for sale securities
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Available for sale securities

Note 19 - Subsequent Event (Det

Note 19 - Subsequent Event (Details Textual)	Nov. 20, 2017$ / shares
Subsequent Event [Member]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.10