Textile and Product Development from End-of-Use Cotton Apparel: A Study to Reclaim Value from Waste

The textile and apparel production consumption generate a huge amount of solid waste. Mechanical recycling is one main method to recycle cotton waste; however, shredding in mechanical shortens fiber length reduces quality. As result, the application mechanically recycled textiles may be limited. This research investigated methods post-consumer waste designed developed second-life products. study applied through design methodology documented step-by-step product development practices communicate results. Using from deconstructed end-of-use garments with high content (80% or higher), combined other materials, researchers yarns, nonwoven, woven, quilted, tufted fabrics. tested properties such as “yarn” tensile strength elongation, fabric thickness, thermal resistance, air permeability, stiffness. fabrics waste, high-value products bags, decorative textile, hat, cell phone glasses cases, contribute sustainability circularity cotton.