Swedish innovation platform for textile sorting (SIPTex)
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | IVL SVENSKA MILJÖINSTITUTET AB - IVL Svenska miljöinstitutet |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 22 058 225 |
| Project duration | May 2019 - October 2022 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Challengedriven innovation - Phase 3 Implementation |
Purpose and goal
The goal of the SIPTex project was to create conditions for high-value textile recycling through the establishment of automated textile sorting on an industrial scale as a new step in a circular textile value chain. During the project, the Siptex facility was established in Malmö. The Siptex plant is the world´s first automated textile sorting on an industrial scale. The facility uses near-infrared and visual spectroscopy (NIR/VIS) to sort textile waste by fiber type and color. The Siptex sorted textile material was analysed with regard to fiber content and chemicals content.
Expected results and effects
Through the establishment and operation of the SIPTex facility, testing and evaluation of automated sorting of textile waste on an industrial scale was made possible. Knowledge and new insights were gained about opportunities and challenges linked to automated textile sorting. This contributed to the creation of a product range of Siptex sorted textiles of specific fiber content that was developed based on market demand. Knowledge was also gained about the importance of well-functioning textile collection and manual sorting to enable subsequent automatic sorting.
Planned approach and implementation
The third stage of the SIPTex project focused on developing, testing and introducing circular solutions for textiles on an industrial scale. In addition to sorting optimisation, quality assurance and environmental assessment, the project has focused on defining and creating well-functioning markets for Siptex´s sorted materials. The project´s partners are made up of actors who represent the entire textile value chain and the majority of partners operate on a global market. The Siptex facility and the project have received attention both nationally and internationally.