New partnership shows successful mixed-fiber garments recycling

A new collaboration between Radici InNova, the research and innovation division of RadiciGroup, The Lycra Company, and lingerie brand Triumph addresses the challenge faced when recycling clothing made from mixed fibers due to the lack of effective fiber separation technologies.

Radici InNova has developed an advanced recycling method using selective dissolution technology. This process makes it possible to recover both nylon and elastane from mixed textile waste. It can be used on products such as swimwear, tights, and leggings, which usually contain several fiber types and were previously considered difficult to recycle.

The internationally patented technology uses solvents that are non-toxic, non-flammable, and environmentally safe. It works with the main nylon types, PA6 and PA66, and allows the recovery of nylon and elastane regardless of their percentage in the fabric. The solvent is also recovered and reused, making the process both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.

In collaboration with The Lycra Company and Triumph, Radici InNova tested the process by creating a lingerie set made fully from recycled materials. Triumph provided leftover production fabric containing 16 percent elastane, from which Radici InNova successfully separated both fibres. The recovered elastane was reprocessed by The Lycra Company, while RadiciGroup converted the recycled nylon into Renycle yarn.

According to Radici InNova, the project represents an important step forward in textile recycling, as it shows that fibres from complex fabrics can be recovered and reused without losing quality. For The Lycra Company, the project demonstrates that elastane can support circular fashion, as recycled elastane maintains its stretch, comfort, and performance when reused.