In a significant stride toward sustainable textile recycling, researchers have demonstrated the potential of a biodegradable solvent, Cyrene™, to extract dyes from polyester fabrics under mild conditions. This breakthrough, published in the journal *Environmental Challenges* (translated as *Environmental Challenges*), could reshape the textile recycling landscape, offering a more eco-friendly alternative to conventional methods.
Polyester, the most widely used textile fiber, accounts for around 54% of global fiber production. However, less than 1% of clothing is recycled into new textiles, largely due to the challenge of removing dyes that reduce the quality of recovered fibers. “The current methods of dye removal often involve harsh chemicals and high temperatures, which can degrade the fiber quality and increase environmental impact,” explains Philip R. Fernando, lead author of the study and a researcher at the Technical Textiles Research Centre, University of Huddersfield.
The study focused on optimizing a sustainable dye extraction method using Cyrene™, a biodegradable solvent. By employing the Taguchi method, a statistical approach for design of experiments, the researchers identified the best combination of solvent ratio, treatment time, and fabric loading for removing two anthraquinone disperse dyes—CI Disperse Red 60 and CI Disperse Blue 56—from polyester fabrics dyed at low and high temperatures.
The optimal conditions were found to be a 75:25 Cyrene-to-water ratio, 30 minutes of treatment, and 10% fabric loading. Dye removal ranged from 70 to 96% for low-temperature dyed fabrics and 70–75% for high-temperature dyed fabrics. While these results are specific to the dyes tested, they align with commonly understood consistency in dye–fibre interactions within similar dye classes.
“This research shows that Cyrene™ can effectively extract dyes without harsh chemicals, improving the recyclability of polyester textiles,” Fernando says. “By enhancing fiber quality and reducing environmental impact, we support a circular economy where textiles can be recycled more efficiently and sustainably.”
The implications for the textile industry are substantial. As the demand for sustainable practices grows, this method could become a key player in the shift towards a circular economy. “The potential for commercial impact is significant,” Fernando notes. “This method could be integrated into existing recycling processes, making them more efficient and environmentally friendly.”
The study’s findings not only highlight the potential of Cyrene™ as a sustainable solvent but also pave the way for further research into other biodegradable solvents and their applications in textile recycling. As the industry continues to evolve, such innovations will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for sustainable and circular textile solutions.