Kleiderly has invented a new recycling process that enables the recycling of textiles, made out of different materials, into a durable multi-purpose material that has the same characteristics as virgin plastic.

Textile waste is a growing concern, which is fueled by the trend of fast fashion. Most textiles end up in landfill or incineration after the first use. Most exciting recycling technologies struggle to recycle textiles with a composition of different materials. Mono-materials are easier to recycle, but they are currently rare on the market. Through the recycling of PET bottles, lots of microplastics are created, which are polluting ecosystems. Another problem is the status quo of plastic production. Most plastics are currently made out of petroleum, which is not sustainable at all.

Kleiderly can recycle textiles containing cotton, polyester, viscose, and elastane. More materials are about to be tested in their further R&D. In the recycling process, they mix the shredded textile waste with a biodegradable glue made from sugar cane. The plastic alternative created out of textile waste has the same characteristics as virgin plastic, therefore it can be used for multiple purposes like eyewear or accessories.

Through the creation of hard plastic out of textile waste, the risk of creating more microplastics by conventionally downcycling the textiles is reduced. Also, the new material can reenter the cycle over and over again without losing quality. Companies can develop their own branded products out of their own textile waste, products like phone cases, glasses, or even furniture.

At the moment, it is difficult to create new materials in different and accurate colors. The easiest color to produce is black at the moment.

Image credit: Kleiderly Company.