Researchers partner to improve wool-nylon carpets recycling

A group of Danish manufacturers, researchers, and industry experts have come together under the UnBlend partnership to improve the reuse and recycling of carpets and upholstery fabrics used in spaces such as ships and hotels.

These textiles are often made from wool-nylon blends, which provide durability and a long lifespan. However, this combination of materials makes recycling difficult once the products are no longer in use.

Julie Brender Trads from the Danish Technological Institute explained that these textiles are challenging to recycle because of their mixed material composition. Despite their high quality, they are often overlooked. However, she noted that they form a consistent and large waste stream, especially during major renovations, which makes them suitable for large-scale recycling efforts.

The UnBlend project is addressing the issue through a broad approach. Instead of focusing on a single solution, the partners are working in three areas: improving product design, promoting creative reuse, and developing recycling technologies.

In terms of design, the project is exploring ways to make products easier to take apart by reducing the use of adhesives and selecting better material combinations. At the same time, the team is experimenting with reusing textile waste to create new products. They are also testing technologies to separate wool and nylon fibres, allowing each material to be recycled individually.