The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) has launched what it claims is the world’s first thoroughly tested, validated and internationally-aligned method for measuring microfibre material loss from textiles.
Developed at the University of Leeds, the microfibre shedding test has now been released to TMC members who will provide feedback ahead of a planned subsequent release to the wider industry.
The test is designed to enable research that leads to product development change and a reduction in microfibre shedding in the fashion, sport, outdoor and home textiles industries.
TMC was set up in 2018 to develop practical solutions for the textile industry to minimise microfibre release to the environment from textile manufacturing and product life cycle.
It aims to connect academic research with the reality of commercial supply chain production, to offer solutions to its brand, retail and supplier members, and ultimately for the greater good of ecosystems.
TMC now has 40 members from across the outdoor sector, sports, high street, luxury fashion and home textiles. It also has research and affiliate members from around the world, boosting its scope to support global collaboration on research into microfibre pollution.
Scientists at the University of Leeds developed the new test in conjunction with TMC members and stakeholders. After exhaustive testing, the consortium board has now approved its release to the membership.
TMC is also funding a full-time research technician at the university to build a database on the impact of different fibres, yarns, fabric constructions and process steps with regard to fibre shedding.
Sophie Mather, chair of TMC, commented: “This work is truly exciting and pioneering as far as establishing the deep textile understanding that we need to make product change.
“This is the reason I started this work in 2016 and I believe that as we dig deeper into the strategic selection of test samples, we will uncover some really insightful learnings that will be of great value to brands and retailers as they develop new product ranges.
“This is the crucial bridge from deep academic work to the reality of commercial product development that the industry is crying out for and building it is exactly why The Microfibre Consortium was founded.”
Courtesy: Eco Textile News
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