'Chemical recycling': 15-minute reaction turns old clothes into useful molecules
Researchers introduce a chemical process breaking down fabrics into reusable molecules, addressing fashion industry waste. Microwave-assisted glycolysis converts textiles, especially mixed materials, into building blocks for new clothing. Potential to recycle 88% of global clothing, reducing environmental impact.
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Researchers have developed a chemical-processing technique that can break down fabrics into reusable molecules, offering a solution to the massive waste generated by the fashion industry. The process, outlined in a Science Advances paper, involves a 15-minute reaction called microwave-assisted glycolysis that can convert old textiles into useful building blocks for new clothing. This method is particularly effective for fabrics with mixed materials like polyester and cotton, which are challenging to recycle using traditional methods. The study suggests that with further development, 88% of clothing worldwide could be recycled using this innovative approach. The researchers believe that scaling up this process could significantly contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry by diverting textiles from landfills and incineration. The new technique offers a promising solution to the growing issue of textile waste and could pave the way for a more sustainable approach to clothing production and disposal.
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