Innovation
Advanced technologies in integrated Autoloop polyester recycling project
The new Autoloop project, funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, is bringing together 14 partners from seven countries and various technologies to develop integrated solutions for textile waste recycling. Fraunhofer UMSICHT, the
Germany-based co-ordinator of the project, said Autoloop comprises several key techno- logical innovations for the complete recycling of polyester- based textiles, which are being further developed and validated by the project partners: Sorting: Zoritex’s artificial intelligence system identifies over 15 different fibre types and their blends using hyper-
Fraunhofer UMSICHT
pyrolysis research reactor for chemical recycling of plastic-containing textiles. Image:
Fraunhofer UMSICHT
spectral near-infrared technol- ogy. This automated approach could increase sorting through- put tenfold whilst reducing costs by 50-75%. Recycling: Aalto’s Ioncell process uses innovative ionic liquid solvents to extract cellulose fibres from textile blends, achieving over 95% recycling rates without the need for harmful chemicals. Synthetic recovery: The ReSyn
technology developed by Fraunhofer UMSICHT and SKZ breaks down synthetic fibres into high-purity building blocks for creating new materials, working efficiently even with contaminated textiles. Fibre tracking: TLX’s IntegriTex technology embeds invisible identifiers in fibres, enabling contactless detection and complete supply chain transparency.
Digital integration: TexRoad’s cloud-based Data Hub standardises information management across the entire recycling process, ensuring compliance with emerging regulations like the Digital Product Passport. If successfully scaled,
Autoloop’s approach could recycle an estimated 1.24m tonnes/yr of textile waste. •
www.umsicht-suro.fraunhofer.de
Paris showcase for Seawool material combining oyster shells with recycled PET
Taiwanese company Creative Tech Textile/Hans Global’s display at the Première Vision trade fair in Paris was headlined by its proprietary Seawool material, made from recycled oyster shells, recycled PET bottles, and other ocean plastics. The company claims that just 1% of the world’s annual shell waste can yield up to 900 tonnes of Seawool fibre,
demonstrating its potential. In 2023, it claims to have successfully reused 100 tonnes of oyster shells and 300 tonnes of post-consumer plastic waste. “At Creative Tech Textile/ Hans Global, we believe the future of fashion innovation is rooted in nature, where sustainability and performance go hand in hand,” said Eddie Wang, Founder and CEO of the company. “Showcasing our innovations at Première Vision Paris allows us to connect with global partners who share our vision for a more responsible and forward-thinking textile industry.” Beyond sustainability,
32 Textiles Loop • Autumn 2025
Seawool offers enhanced functionality with its Merino blend, which is naturally antibacterial and odour-resist- ant, thermally regulating, soft to the touch, and has the feel of wool.
It is also used in the
manufacture of Smawarm, described as a next-generation thermal insulation material that re-engineers Seawool fibres into a spiral shape, mimicking the heat-trapping hollow strands of polar bear fur. Micro air pockets effectively retain body heat without adding bulk, making the fabric lightweight, soft, and comfortable. •
https://hansglobaltextile.net
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