SusTex Integrated Recycling Process
It will take an entire ecosystem to drive true textile circularity
The SusTex Integrated Recycling Process brings together industry leaders, researchers, and manufacturers to create a seamless, end-to-end solution for textile waste. NTU’s expertise in chemical recycling, materials science, membrane technology, and bioremediation, combined with RGE’s deep experience in viscose fiber production, enables the transformation of discarded textiles into high-value materials—efficiently and sustainably.
Our system-level approach integrates selective depolymerization, advanced separation, and fiber reintegration, enabling high-purity cellulose recovery tailored for industry reuse. Decentralized, modular and urban-fit recycling hubs reduce energy use, water consumption, and carbon footprint while maximizing local fiber recovery.
Innovative Textile Solutions at SusTex
UpTex: Circular Textile Upcycling
We extract high-quality cellulose and plastic from textile waste, converting it into functional materials for applications like insulation, coatings, and specialty fibers, driving a circular economy.
Selective Depolymerization
We extract high-quality cellulose and plastics from textile waste, converting them into functional materials.
BioRem: Cleaner Water, Healthier Ecosystems
Inspired by Nature, we employ biological treatment methods to remove pollutants from textile wastewater, making water safe for reuse and protecting the environment.
Hydroloop: Reagent Recycling Made Simple
We use advanced membrane separation to recover reactive agents and recycle water from poly-cotton separation, reducing waste and improving energy efficiency for sustainable manufacturing.
Discovery: Smart Waste Discovery
We develop selective depolymerization processes to break down plastic-based materials in textiles, enabling efficient cellulose recovery. This helps reduce waste and supports a circular economy.
Advancing A Greener Textile Economy
Closing the Loop on Textile Materials
At SusTex, we are redefining the future of textiles by driving innovation in circularity, resource recovery, and eco-efficient manufacturing. Our research focuses on transforming waste into valuable resources, ensuring a greener, more sustainable materials ecosystem.
With ongoing projects in this area, we aim to:
- Recover and repurpose cellulose and plastics from discarded textile
- Enhance fiber quality for long-lasting, high-performance materials
- Reduce water, energy and chemical use in textile recycling
- Enable smarter design choices for a more sustainable fashion and materials industry