Cost efficient and circular approach for manufacturing and recycling of biobased PTT fiber in textile industry

Important results from the project

The project aimed to achieve a circular strategy for the production, use and recycling of PTT polymer in the textile industry. The goal was to eliminate waste and promote sustainability by using renewable resources and exploring chemical recycling of PTT textile waste. The project included the use of residual products to produce cost-effective building blocks for bio-based PTT. Overall, the project shows the potential for a circular economy and sustainability through chemical recycling and the use of renewable resources in the textile industry.

Expected long term effects

The results showed successful production of 1,3-propanediol from sugar or glycerol with good yield and productivity. A downstream process was used to purify 1,3-PDO. Technical and financial assessment showed profitability after approximately 5.5 years. The LCA study showed environmental and social consequences, but chemical recycling of PTT textiles showed promising results for circular economy and sustainability. PTT is considered environmentally friendly and sustainable with renewable resources and circular recycling.

Approach and implementation

To fulfil the proposed goals, the project was divided into three WPs. WP1. Development of cost-efficient way of producing biobased 1,3 propanediol. 1) Production routes for 1,3-PDO. 2) Feedstock analysis WP2 Synthesis, manufacturing and recycling of the value-added PTT polymeric fiber. 1) Synthesis of biobased polyester from the renewable building blocks and melt spinning into fibers. 2) Testing the feasibility of chemical recycling of PTT textile waste from textile blends and closing the cycle loop of PTT polymer. WP3 Project management, dissemination and communication. .