Textile Recycling Technologies, Colouring and Finishing Methods

Automated sorting and fibre identification:
Textile waste sorting is currently performed 
manually. Accurate knowledge and identification of chemical and structural composition of the 
textile waste stream, whether applied to mechanical or chemical recycling routes is necessary for 
efficient processing, and quality of feedstock and outputs.
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The development of efficient and 
reliable automated sorting of textiles, as well as fibre identification will greatly complement and 
contribute the development of fibre-to-fibre recycling technologies and continue to support the 
requirements of mechanical recyclers for other material outputs. Various optical sorting 
technologies, namely spectroscopic-based, have been explored and are currently being developed 
for commercial operations. Some examples in development are highlighted: 
Company/Group 
Technology 
Valvan 
(Belgium, Netherlands, UK) 
FIBERSORT Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, industrial scale 
sorting (Speed: 1 piece per second)
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IVL Swedish Environmental 
Research Institute
(Sweden) 
Automated sorting technology based on optical sensors that detect 
different fibre materials, similar technology used to sort packages
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Telaketju 
(Finland) 
REISKAtex®: NIR spectroscopy, small scale identification and 
sorting equipment system.
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HKRITA
(Hong Kong) 
Automated sorting system (residual metal detection, colour detection 
algorithm) with robotics AGV and intelligent conveyor control
(Speed: 2 seconds per sample)
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Textile Recycling Technologies, Colouring and Finishing Methods | Le 
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Information and traceability systems:
The increased traceability and knowledge of materials 
and chemicals used in textiles and apparel during production processes (with adequate protection 
of confidential information among stakeholders), would contribute to safer chemistry and 
practices, extending into product safety and greater efficiency in subsequent recycling processes. 
With the various information management systems, testing and certification systems, coupled 
with globally dispersed industry players that operate under diverse regulations, information 
availability of materials and chemicals of concern may be limited or incomplete. Traceability 
systems integrated in the full supply chain, and development of supporting technologies (i.e. 
DNA, QR codes, RFID tagging) are emerging as long-term initiatives.
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Funding: 
Cost is a significant barrier for various industry players and emerging technologies. 
Funding is needed to expand existing technologies, or support collection schemes that enable the 
implementation and growth of textile recycling systems. For new technology solutions to scale 
beyond the prototype stage, public-private financing structure could help attract private funds 
and launch a new technology solution.
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