Radici InNova, the RadiciGroup division dedicated to research and innovation, has developed a textile recycling process based on selective dissolution technology, capable of treating mixed textile waste—such as swimwear, tights and leggings—and recovering both nylon and LYCRA® fibers.
The LYCRA Co. and lingerie brand Triumph validated the process by using the recovered fibers to create a prototype 100% recycled lingerie set.
The internationally patented process uses nontoxic, nonflammable solvents. It can be applied to the main types of nylon (PA6 and PA66) and is economically sustainable because it allows for the recovery of both nylon and LYCRA fibers as well as the solvents.
The project began four years ago, when Radici InNova launched the study of an innovative process for the dissolution and separation of mixed textile fibers. After the initial development phase, subsequent work made it possible to recover samples of LYCRA fiber from multi-material fabrics, which were then sent to The LYCRA Co. to verify their recyclability.
The next step was to demonstrate the feasibility of the textile recycling process: Triumph provided its own production surplus, a fabric containing 16% LYCRA fiber. From this material, Radici InNova succeeded in recovering both LYCRA fiber and nylon. The LYCRA fiber was then re-spun by The LYCA Co., while RadiciGroup processed the recycled nylon to produce new Renycle® yarn.
Using these recycled yarns, a 60-meter black fabric was created, which Triumph used to produce a coordinated lingerie set—bra and briefs—concretely demonstrating the possibility of closing the loop from textile waste to new garments.
“Our next step will focus on developing a capsule collection, while also working on solutions to ensure product identification, traceability and circularity systems so that … once they reach the end of their life, can be recycled in the most appropriate way,” says Vera Galarza, global head of sustainability, Triumph. “Being part of this project strengthens our belief that circularity for garments made from mixed textile fibers is possible, and we are proud to help turn this vision into reality.”
RadiciGroup manufactures specialty chemicals, polyamides, high-performance polymers, and advanced textile solutions, including nylon and polyester yarns, recycled yarn, bio-yarns from renewable sources, and nonwovens.
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