Scientists Develop New Way to Create Sustainable Textile Fibers
Researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder have created a machine that uses eco-friendly materials like gelatin to produce textile biofibers.
The biofibers have a consistency similar to linen fibers and dissolve in hot water within a few minutes to an hour, making it possible to recycle the materials to produce new garments.
Textile Pollution and the Alternatives
The environmental impact of textile production is a significant issue globally. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States alone sent more than 11 million tons of textiles to landfills in 2018.
The development of biofibers offers a potential solution to the textile pollution problem. The machine can fit on a table and costs just $560 to set up, making it accessible to designers and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
How the Biofiber Machine Works
The team’s machine uses a plastic syringe to heat and squeeze droplets of a liquid gelatin mixture, which is then stretched into long, thin threads. The fibers can be mixed with bio-based dyes or other additives before being placed in a liquid bath, making it possible to customize the color, strength, and flexibility of the fibers.
Breaking Down the Lifecycle of Textile Materials
The researchers are seeking to redesign the entire lifecycle of textile production. The machine’s ability to create biodegradable fibers from waste gelatin offers a potential solution to the unsustainable textile production practices currently used.