Uster Technologies, a trusted supplier of quality control systems to the textile manufacturing industry, has released its first Sustainability Bulletin, focusing on the use of recycled textile materials. The publication aims to provide clarity and understanding for yarn producers, addressing the challenges and presenting solutions in processing mechanically recycled fibres.
With the increasing demand for sustainability in the textile industry, consumers now expect recycled materials to be used in the clothing and home textiles they purchase. This trend is driving innovation throughout the industry, but it also raises uncertainties for yarn producers economically and technically.
The bulletin highlights the specific quality considerations when using mechanically recycled fibres in spinning, including higher short-fibre and nep content as well as possible colour variations from post-consumer material. However, thermo-mechanically and chemically recycled fibres are believed to present fewer processing challenges, exhibiting similar behaviour to new synthetic and viscose fibres.
The report also emphasizes that yarns and fabrics produced from recycled fibres may be better suited for applications where yarn and fabric strength are less critical, but control of unevenness, imperfections, and handle properties is required. This makes recycled fibres suitable for casual clothing such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, and sleepwear.
Uster Technologies sees its role as a knowledge provider, setting definitions and standards to accelerate the industry transformation towards sustainability. The recently launched Uster Statistics 2023 edition includes a section for recycled yarn and an expanded range of fibre data to support sustainability goals.
Cooperation within the entire textile value chain will be crucial to effectively and efficiently utilize recycled materials for a sustainable future. Uster Technologies encourages textile manufacturers to embrace this industry transformation, recognizing that recycled fibres are the raw material of the future.
Overall, Uster Technologies’ Sustainability Bulletin No. 1 sheds light on the challenges and possibilities of using recycled textile materials, paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative textile industry.
