New recyclable yarn is as stretchy as spandex and could help tackle fashion's plastic waste problem
A new yarn combines the stretch of spandex with the recyclability of a single plastic, offering a potential path toward more sustainable clothing.
A groundbreaking new elastic yarn, as flexible as spandex, may revolutionize fashion's approach to sustainability, according to a recent study in ACS Materials Letters. This innovative yarn, composed entirely of recyclable polyethylene, mirrors the stretchiness and durability of today's spandex-containing fabrics while eliminating recycling challenges.
Unlike most existing stretchy materials, which combine a bouncy polyurethane fiber with a tougher substance like polyester or nylon, this new yarn consists of two polyethylene fibers - a soft, elastic core and a stiffer outer layer. By utilizing materials from the same plastic family, the yarn can be melted, respun, and recycled multiple times without losing its performance.
In laboratory tests, the recycled yarn maintained its strength after 10 cycles, surpassing commercial spandex-polyester yarn in maximum load-bearing capacity. The MIT researchers, led by study co-author Svetlana Boriskina, believe this breakthrough could significantly reduce textile waste and pollution. The adaptable polyethylene yarn could be engineered for additional desirable properties, such as moisture-wicking, stain resistance, and even the creation of buttons, zippers, and buckles.
With the potential to transform entire garments into recyclable materials, this novel yarn could potentially eliminate the need for complex garment disassembly during recycling, marking a significant stride towards a more eco-friendly fashion industry.
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