A Simple Process Solves the Problem of Polyester Recycling

Researchers have developed a way of recycling one of the most popular but environmentally problematic of fabrics: polyester. Their new method is simple, non-toxic for humans and the environment and, what’s more, it preserves the integrity of the cotton removed from the fabric so that it’s ready for reuse…

The fabric has its pros: it’s long-lasting, lightweight, moisture resistant, quick drying and easy to clean. However, on the downside, making the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and cotton blend relies on fossil fuels and produces a lot of carbon dioxide. And once you’re done wearing it, rather than being recycled, the bulk of polyester ends up in a landfill where it doesn’t degrade (at least, not for a very long time).

Now, researchers from the University of Copenhagen may have developed a solution to the polyester problem, developing a simple, green way of recycling the product…

The game-changing method requires only three things: heat, a non-toxic solvent and hartshorn salt, otherwise known as ammonium carbonate, a product used in baked goods.

“For example, we can take a polyester dress, cut it up into small pieces and place it in a container,” said Shriaya Sharma, a study co-author. “Then, add a bit of mild solvent, and thereafter hartshorn salt, which many people know as a leavening agent in baked goods. We then heat it all up to 160° C [320 °F] and leave it for 24 hours. The result is a liquid in which the plastic and cotton fibers settle into distinct layers. It’s a simple and cost-effective process.”